OIC discusses tackling global health crises

Experts and academics spoke about the experience of countries during COVID-19 and beyond in one-day seminar by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. (SPA/File)
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Updated 11 October 2022
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OIC discusses tackling global health crises

JEDDAH: Islamic states have discussed lessons learned from the pandemic and how they can better work with others in a future health emergency.

During a one-day seminar by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, experts and academics spoke about the experience of countries during COVID-19 and beyond. 

The meetings explored views from the Islamic world on how the pandemic was viewed from a civilizational perspective, and how international bodies can cooperate more closely.

Representatives also discussed preparations for a possible future health crisis, and the strengthening of cooperation between the OIC and major countries in addressing the danger. The meeting was titled “Connecting further at the post-COVID-19 contemporary world: Enhancing dialogue between the Islamic world and other great civilizations.” 

It was chaired by Tarig Ali Bakheet, the OIC’s assistant secretary-general for humanitarian, cultural and social affairs. Globally, around 627 million cases of COVID-19 have been reported in 228 countries, and more than 6.5 million people have died after contracting the virus.


Saudi Arabia continues Makkah Route Initiative

Updated 14 May 2024
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Saudi Arabia continues Makkah Route Initiative

RIYADH: The Makkah Route Initiative, implemented by the Saudi Ministry of Interior, continues to streamline pilgrims’ journeys from international airports in their own countries, Saudi Press Agency reported.

The initiative, set up to facilitate the arrival of pilgrims in the Kingdom, involves close cooperation between the ministry and various partner agencies.

Launched in 2017 as part of Vision 2030, it involves a dedicated team to receive the travelers and includes special buses to transport them safely and comfortably on their journey through Makkah and Madinah.

Services include biometrics, Hajj visas and electronic luggage coding.


18 health centers in Madinah to serve Hajj pilgrims

Updated 14 May 2024
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18 health centers in Madinah to serve Hajj pilgrims

MADINAH: Madinah’s health department has prepared 18 hospitals and medical centers for this year’s Hajj.

The facilities have over 20,000 staff members, advanced medical equipment, laboratories, blood banks, vaccines, and emergency care services, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Tuesday.


‘No Hajj without a permit,’ campaign launches in Makkah

Updated 14 May 2024
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‘No Hajj without a permit,’ campaign launches in Makkah

  • Initiative part of ‘Hajj is Worship and Civilized Behavior’ project

JEDDAH: Makkah region has launched a “No Hajj Without a Permit” campaign to prevent overcrowding and other problems during the pilgrimage later this year, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Monday.

At the launch in the presence of several royals and officials, Prince Saud bin Mishaal, deputy governor of Makkah and vice chairman of the Central Hajj Committee, warned that action would be taken against those who violate the law.

The permit initiative is a part of the “Hajj is Worship and Civilized Behavior” campaign launched by Prince Khalid bin Faisal, advisor to King Salman and Makkah governor.

Prince Saud said that adhering to the law would ensure a safe Hajj for pilgrims.

There is coordination taking place with the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah and other government agencies to enforce the law.


Saudi foreign ministry signs pact to bolster humanitarian law

Updated 14 May 2024
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Saudi foreign ministry signs pact to bolster humanitarian law

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Permanent Committee for International Humanitarian Law in the Kingdom signed a pact on Monday to enhance cooperation.

The Kingdom’s Foreign Affairs Deputy Minister Waleed El-Khereiji inked the agreement with the committee’s Chairman Jalal Al-Owaisi.

The pact “aims to support joint efforts, encourage expertise exchange in humanitarian international law and spread its culture,” the Saudi Press Agency reported.


KSrelief carries out cardiac surgery, catheterization in Yemen

Updated 14 May 2024
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KSrelief carries out cardiac surgery, catheterization in Yemen

  • Medical workers performed 166 catheterization procedures and 25 open-heart operations

RIYADH: Volunteer medical staffers of Saudi Arabia’s aid agency KSrelief have been carrying out cardiac surgery and catheterization for children and adults at Prince Mohammed bin Salman Hospital in Aden, Yemen.

The project began on May 4 and ends May 15, with 25 volunteers working with the Saudi Development and Reconstruction Program for Yemen.

The medical workers performed 166 catheterization procedures and 25 open-heart operations.

The assistance is a part of KSrelief’s worldwide relief and humanitarian projects.