Abu Dhabi: The third edition of the World Local Production Forum concluded in Abu Dhabi under the theme "Advancing Local Production for Health Equity, Global Health Security and Sustainable Development". The three-day event, held from April 7th to 9th, attracted participation from top government officials, leaders in the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, and stakeholders from around the globe.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade and Chairman of the Emirates Drug Establishment (EDE), closed the forum by reaffirming the UAE's dedication to enhancing local pharmaceutical production. He stated that the UAE is quickly establishing itself as a hub for pharmaceutical innovation and advanced healthcare technologies, emphasizing that local production is both a healthcare priority and a strategic development goal.
Dr. Al Zeyoudi highlighted the UAE's partnership with the World Health Organization in hosting the forum, underscoring the country's commitment to expanding local manufacturing capabilities, supporting research and development, and maintaining high standards in medical product production and distribution. He also discussed the UAE's National Strategy for Advanced Innovation, which integrates modern technologies into healthcare production while focusing on environmental sustainability.
The Minister concluded by stressing the importance of international cooperation in effecting constructive change in healthcare systems. Dr. Fatima Al Kaabi, Director-General of EDE, echoed these sentiments, noting the UAE's leadership in building resilient and innovative pharmaceutical ecosystems. She emphasized the importance of investing in local capabilities to ensure health security and equitable access to essential treatments.
Dr. Yukiko Nakatani from the World Health Organization remarked on the forum's significance, given the global challenges in accessing essential health products. The event featured discussions across various thematic areas, such as regulatory frameworks, investment strategies, and pandemic preparedness, which are crucial for strengthening local production systems.
Dr. Al Kaabi also participated in a high-level panel on "Localising Pharmaceutical Innovation," where she shared the Emirates Drug Establishment's vision to position the UAE as a global center for pharmaceutical innovation. She highlighted the role of pharmaceutical manufacturing in economic diversification and healthcare resilience.
Dr. Asma Ibrahim Al Mannaei, from the Department of Health - Abu Dhabi, presented Abu Dhabi's strategic vision for health innovation, emphasizing the Emirate's leadership in research, clinical trials, and health technology. She noted Abu Dhabi's top ranking in pandemic crisis management and the UAE's role in managing the distribution of over 260 million vaccine doses globally.
Key outcomes from the forum included participation from 4,077 individuals across 141 countries, involvement from 16 ministers, and over 229 international speakers representing various sectors. The event further solidified the UAE's commitment to advancing local production and innovation in the healthcare sector.