Month: April 2023

Minister of Health, Dr. Jaleela bint Al-Sayed Jawad Hassan, has stressed the importance of developing national capabilities in order to achieve the reference vision for public health laboratories, increase their capacity and use the necessary technologies at all levels.

She also urged more efforts to continue success in contributing to global efforts to combat influenza viruses.

The minister was speaking while meeting Bahrain’s National Influenza Centre, led by Chief of the Public Health Lab, Amjad Ghanem Zayed, following the Centre’s success in winning the World Health Organisation (WHO) Award for the Eastern Mediterranean Region, in recognition of its continuous participation in supporting surveillance activities and the exchange of influenza viruses with collaborating centres over the past two years (2021-2022).

The minister expressed thanks and appreciation to Bahrain’s National Influenza Centre’s team for the tremendous efforts they have exerted over the previous years in the areas of Virological surveillance and response.

The WHO award was announced at the conclusion of the third scientific conference and the sixth meeting of the Acute Respiratory Infection Surveillance Network in the Eastern Mediterranean Region, which was held in the Sultanate of Oman

The WHO award also recognised the centre’s active role and contributions, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, in supporting surveillance activities and the exchange of influenza viruses with centers collaborating with the Geneva-based organisation.

The aim was to ramp up surveillance of influenza and other emerging respiratory diseases and optimise the use of data to prepare control programmes and conduct research related to influenza and other respiratory viruses.

Established in 2011 in the public health laboratories, the National Influenza Centre was accredited as a national center for influenza and a member of the Global Network for Influenza Surveillance and Export (GISRS) by the World Health Organization in 2012.

The centre, an offshoot of the Health Ministry, was approved after it passed all the quality requirements specified in the international standards, and participated in the external quality assessment programs (EQAP) provided by the World Health Organization through the GISRS network,

The accreditation was renewed in 2018, after a delegation of WHO experts visited the center to verify the continuity of the implementation of the requirements and passing all local and international quality requirements.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

Minister of Health, Dr. Jalila bint Al-Sayed Jawad Hassan, stressed keenness to go ahead with mapping out strategies to combat smoking and tobacco so as to maintain the health and safety of the community.

She was speaking as she chaired the meeting of the National Committee to Combat Smoking and All Types and Products of Tobacco, in the presence of representatives of ministries and official authorities in the committee.

The Minister of Health welcomed the members and thanked them for their efforts which brought about numerous accomplishments. She stressed keenness to build on those achievements to attain the desired goals.

The meeting spotlighted issues on its agenda and approved minutes of the previous one.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

Under the patronage of Minister of Education, Chairman of the Higher Education Council, Dr. Mohammed bin Mubarak Juma’a, Bahrain is set to host the Global Higher Education Exhibition 2023 (GHEDEX 2023) at the Exhibition World Bahrain from May 6 to 8.

A host of local, regional and international higher education establishments will participate in the exhibition to showcase educational opportunities to visitors. The event will also feature a line-up of activities, including the technical education and vocational training exhibition, the international innovation and entrepreneurship conference, and GHEDEX prizes for excellence in higher education.

It is worth noting that GHEDEX is being organized for the first time in Bahrain by Oman International Trade and Exhibitions (OITE Group). It was previously organized in many countries like Oman and Kuwait.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

The General Directorate of Verdict Enforcement and Alternative Sentencing, in coordination with the Northern Governorate, has distributed Ramadan baskets among beneficiaries of the “Fael Khair” programme. The five-day distribution was part of the directives of Interior Ministry, General Shaikh Rashid bin Abdullah Al Khalifa, to promote community partnership.

The distribution process was carried out in association with the beneficiaries of the alternative sanctions to reintegrate them into society and reinforce national and Islamic values.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

Bahrain joins the world in marking the World Autism Awareness Day which was approved by the United Nations in 2008 and is observed on April 2 every year. This year’s theme “Transformation: Toward a Neuro-Inclusive World for All” aims to cast light on the concept of autism, help overcome challenges and raise awareness of the right of people suffering from autism to be provided with the needed care.

Marking the occasion, Minister of Social Development, Osama bin Ahmed Khalaf Al Asfour, underlined the importance of people with special needs in the social texture, pointing out the government’s keenness to provide them with quality health, educational and cultural services to engage them actively in the community. He asserted the kingdom’s commitment to the values of justice and equality and promoting full participation of people suffering from the Autism spectrum disorder (ASD). He also stressed the kingdom’s keenness to present a model to emulate in health and social care.

The minister noted that within the framework of the government’s interest in providing every support to people suffering from ASD, the ministry is working on supporting the non-government rehabilitation centres that are in charge of providing special services to this category. He added that the number of beneficiaries from the ministry’s support to those centres accounts for 300 autistic students. He also pointed out that the total number of autistic students registered with the ministry amounts to 1286 who benefit from the monthly disability allowance.

The Ministry of Social Development stressed that raising awareness of the average ASD is the responsibility of all and requires more concerted efforts to diagnose cases and ensure their early detection, in addition to adopting comprehensive therapeutic, rehabilitation and integration in the community programmes.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa today held a session of talks with HM King Abdulla II ibn Al Hussein of Jordan at Al Al Sakhir Palace.

Present were His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, HM the King’s Personal Representative HH Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, HM the King’s Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, HRH Prince Hashem bin Abdulla II, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Charity Educational Charitable Trust, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

HM the King welcomed HM the King of Jordan and exchanged with HM greetings on the Holy month of Ramadan, wishing their countries and peoples, the Arab and Islamic nations many happy returns and further security, peace and prosperity.

The two leaders reviewed aspects of longstanding relations and ways of further consolidating solid joint cooperation towards serving mutual interests between the two countries.

HM the King affirmed the depth of the Bahraini-Jordanian historic relations, and constant communication and coordination at all levels, praising Jordan’s honorable stances towards the Kingdom of Bahrain.

The two Monarchs expressed great pride in the advanced level reached by the historical relations between two kingdoms, stressing constant keenness to continue strengthening and developing them in all fields.

HM praised Jordan’s pivotal and active role under the leadership of HM King Abdullah II in defending the interests of the Arab nation and championing its just causes, especially the Palestinian issue, and pushing joint pan-Arab action forward.

The two leaders discussed the latest regional and international developments, affirming their support for all efforts aimed at finding permanent solutions to crises in the region in a way that contributes to consolidating the foundations of security and stability and achieving development, peace and prosperity for its peoples.

HM the King of Jordan expressed his thanks and gratitude HM the King for the warm reception and gracious hospitality, stressing the pride of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, leadership and people, in the firm bonds of brotherhood and the distinguished relations of cooperation with the Kingdom of Bahrain and its people.

HM the King hosted an Iftar banquet in honour of HM King Abdulla II and the accompanying delegation.

HM King Hamad had welcomed HM King Abdulla II of Jordan, upon his arrival today on a visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain, accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Hashem bin Abdulla II.

HM the King bade farewell to HM King Abdulla II of Jordan, accompanied by HRH Prince Hashem bin Abdulla II, on his departure.

The Kingdom of Jordan was also seen off by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, HM the King’s Personal Representative HH Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, HM the King’s Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Charity Educational Charitable Trust, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa welcomed HM King Abdulla II ibn Al Hussein of Jordan upon his arrival today on a visit to the Kingdom of Bahrain, accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Hashem bin Abdulla II.

The Jordanian monarch was also welcomed by His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, HM the King’s Personal Representative HH Shaikh Abdulla bin Hamad Al-Khalifa, HM the King’s Representative for Humanitarian Work and Youth Affairs HH Shaikh Nasser bin Hamad Al Khalifa, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Charity Educational Charitable Trust His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa.

Two rows of honor guards saluted HM the King and HM the King of Jordan.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

The Kingdom of Bahrain will tomorrow, Sunday, mark the Arab Pharmacist Day, annually observed on April 2.

The annual tribute recognizes the role of pharmacists and encourages activities that enhance and highlight the role of pharmacists in improving health care services.

It highlights the importance of cooperation between public and private parties to deliver consultancy and improve healthcare services through the safe and efficient use of medication.

The Ministry of Health paid tribute to pharmacists on this occasion, hailing their efforts and achievements. It stressed commitment to hold lectures and other events to highlight their vital role as well as the safe use of medication.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

Shaikh Ebrahim bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture and Research will host Egyptian novelist Dr. Osama Abdelraouf El Shazly on Monday.

Dr. El Shazly will give a lecture titled “Between Scripture and Historical Text: A view on the novel The Papers of Shamoun the Egyptian”.

The event starts at 9pm and can also be viewed via the centre’s YouTube channel.

In addition to his literary work, Dr. El-Shazly is a leading foot and ankle surgeon in the Arab World. He holds a PhD in orthopedic surgery from Ain Shams University and a fracture treatment fellowship from Germany. He is currently working as a professor of orthopedic surgery at the Faculty of Medicine at Ain Shams University. He held the position of Secretary General of the Egyptian Medical Fellowship, as well as Director General of the National Training Institute. He has published many medical research papers and serves as a reviewer for several international scientific journals.

He has a great interest in literature and history and teaches the history of medicine at the Faculty of Medicine at Ain Shams University and the University of Barcelona. He is the author of the novels ‘A Journey to Gog and Magog’ and ‘The Papers of Shamoun the Egyptian’.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, today visited the majlises of Farouk Yousuf Almoayyed and the late Ali bin Yousif Fakhro.

HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister exchanged Ramadan blessings with the hosts and guests of the majlises.

His Royal Highness highlighted the Kingdom of Bahrain’s wide-ranging achievements, attained by Bahraini citizens, who continue to be at the heart of the Kingdom’s success.

His Royal Highness noted that Bahraini citizens remain a source of inspiration, adding that their creativity and innovation are the foundations of the Kingdom’s comprehensive development, led by His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

His Royal Highness emphasised the importance of Ramadan majlises in furthering cultural bonds and preserving traditions across many generations.

His Royal Highness affirmed that despite current global challenges, the Kingdom of Bahrain is committed to implementing initiatives and projects that deliver sustainable growth and development for current and future generations.

His Royal Highness went on to emphasise the importance of strengthening public-private partnerships, and ensuring that Bahrain remains an ideal destination for investment by adopting legislation that supports a business-friendly environment, which will create promising opportunities for citizens.

For their part, the majlis hosts and guests expressed their gratitude to HRH the Crown Prince and Prime Minister for his visit and engagement with Bahrainis in their Ramadan majlises across the Kingdom.

The hosts and guests further wished the Kingdom of Bahrain progress and prosperity under the leadership of His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa.

During the majlis visits, His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister was accompanied by the Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Isa bin Salman Charity Educational Charitable Trust, His Highness Shaikh Isa bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Minister of Finance and National Economy, HE Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, and several senior officials.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

The Foreign Affairs Ministry called on all citizens to avoid traveling to Tanzania and Equatorial Guinea for their safety due to the outbreak of the Marburg virus.

The ministry issued the travel alert after the health authorities in the two African countries announced the outbreak of the virus.

The ministry urged citizens to comply with the mandatory medical protocols in case they need to travel to ensure their safety.

For more information and queries call the ministry’s follow-up office on phone number: +97317227555.

Source: Bahrain News Agency

SandP Global Ratings revised Oman’s outlook to positive and affirmed its ratings at “BB”, in light of improving fiscal performance.

The agency said in its credit rating report on the Sultanate of Oman issued today, that the revised outlook came as a result of the reform measures undertaken by the government of the Sultanate of Oman in the financial and economic areas that may contribute to strengthening Oman’s fiscal position in a better way than the agency expects, adding a greater degree of resilience of the national economy against oil price shocks.

The agency pointed out that the government’s efforts to improve fiscal performance and policies supporting economic growth were reflected significantly in reducing public debt. It also highlighted the strong growth witnessed by the nominal GDP and the decline in total debt to GDP from more than 60 percent in 2021 to about 40 percent in 2022.

The agency added that the Sultanate of Oman is determined to continue improving its fiscal position, which will enhance its resilience against oil prices volatility.

The agency expects that the public debt will decrease to about RO 16.5 billion, or 37 percent of GDP, by the end of 2023. It pointed out that the decline in the public debt and posting financial surplus during the years 2023 and 2024 will lead to an increase in the fiscal space of the Sultanate of Oman.

In its report, the agency said that the government managed to rationalise public spending during 2022, despite the increase in oil revenues, as a result of the government’s continued efforts to control public expenditure.

The agency also expects the growth of GDP (at constant prices) at an average rate of about 2.5 percent during the period 2023-2026. It also expects that the average growth of non-oil sector will reach about 3.5 percent during the period 2025-2026.

In the report, the agency pointed out that the average price of Brent crude is expected to reach $90 per barrel in 2023, $80 per barrel in 2024, and $55 per barrel in 2025.

The report stated that the credit ratings of the Sultanate of Oman could be raised during the coming period if the ongoing reform measures further strengthen Oman’s fiscal position, in light of the continued reduction in government net debt and interest costs.

At the end of its report, the agency noted that the credit rating may be affected if fiscal reform implementation slows, or the occurrence of unexpected factors leading to larger fiscal deficits or a worse external position in a way that exceeds the agency’s expectations.

It is worth noting that the government of the Sultanate of Oman has managed to reduce the public debt to RO 16.6 billion during the first quarter of 2023.

Source: Oman News Agency