Moscow: Minister of Health and Population Khaled Abdel Ghaffar engaged in a bilateral meeting with Minister of Health of the Russian Federation Mikhail Murashko to discuss enhancing joint cooperation across key health sectors. This meeting took place during the 'Healthy Life' Forum held in Moscow on March 16-17.

According to State Information Service Egypt, the discussions centered on reviewing the current status of bilateral cooperation and identifying opportunities to expand collaboration in priority areas. The aim is to support healthcare system development and promote the exchange of expertise between the two countries. Official Spokesperson for the Ministry of Health and Population, Hossam Abdel Ghaffar, noted that both parties examined mechanisms to facilitate the registration of Russian medical products in Egypt. This includes streamlining regulatory procedures and exploring frameworks for mutual recognition to accelerate the availability of medical products and strengthen cooperation in the pharmaceutical sector.

Further discussions included prospects for joint cooperation in combating viral diseases. Particular focus was on the production and distribution of treatments for hepatitis B and C, as well as HIV/AIDS, to reinforce coordinated efforts against infectious diseases. In addition, the ministers considered the potential recognition of academic qualifications from selected Russian universities and the expansion of specialized training programs in fields like oncology, radiology, and digital health to support professional development and capacity building.

The meeting also highlighted ways to bolster Egypt's efforts to provide healthcare services to displaced persons from the Gaza Strip. This includes the provision of essential medicines and medical supplies as part of broader humanitarian assistance to the Palestinian people. The spokesperson mentioned that the meeting reviewed the status of a draft memorandum of understanding proposed by the Russian side. This draft has undergone technical review and is in the process of obtaining necessary national approvals. The Russian side expressed interest in elevating the memorandum to establish a more structured and effective framework for bilateral cooperation in the health sector.