On Friday in Rabat, Morocco and Saudi Arabia signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at enhancing cooperation in the fields of health, social protection, and pandemic preparedness. The agreement was signed by Morocco’s Minister of Health and Social Protection, Khalid Aït Taleb, and Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Health, Fahad Bin Abdurrahman Al-Jalajel.

This MoU seeks to improve the quality of healthcare services, patient safety, and the fight against pandemics and epidemics, including early detection and the implementation of necessary control measures. The agreement also covers public health, preventive and curative medicine, digital health, and virtual medicine.

The partnership will explore opportunities for cooperation in blood transfusion services to ensure a sufficient and safe blood supply in both countries. The terms of the MoU will be implemented through the exchange of information and expertise, expert visits, the organization of conferences and seminars, and health-related training. Additionally, the agreement encourages scientific research in health and medicine, as well as the exchange of information in medicine and telemedicine.

During the signing ceremony, Minister Aït Taleb praised the strong ties of friendship between Morocco and Saudi Arabia, noting that this agreement will further solidify the various aspects of cooperation between the two nations. He emphasized that the MoU strengthens bilateral efforts to overcome global challenges related to pandemic management and health crises.

Saudi Health Minister Fahad Bin Abdurrahman Al-Jalajel highlighted the importance of the MoU, noting that it will enhance cooperation in various fields, particularly scientific research, the development of health systems, and telemedicine. He added that the meeting with his Moroccan counterpart provided an opportunity to discuss international cooperation and strategies to address current health challenges.

The visit also allowed the Saudi delegation to learn about Morocco’s ongoing projects to overhaul its national health system, under the guidance of King Mohammed VI, particularly in the areas of social protection, universal health coverage, and the pharmaceutical and vaccine industries. The Saudi minister’s visit underscores the strong bonds of friendship between the two kingdoms and their commitment to expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

As part of the visit, the Saudi Health Minister and his delegation toured healthcare facilities, hospitals, and industrial sites specializing in vaccine production.