Minister of Health Dr. Abdul Hussein Aziz Al-Mousawi reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to implementing the memoranda of understanding signed with France to strengthen international cooperation and develop Iraq's health sector, particularly in the production and provision of high-quality medicines, including treatments for cancer patients.

Al-Mousawi explained that the Prime Minister's recent visit to France included meetings with several French business leaders specializing in pharmaceutical manufacturing and hospital construction. He noted that the latest meeting builds on discussions initiated during the visit, with the participation of a high-level specialized technical committee.

The minister emphasized that the ministry aims to move beyond formal meetings and translate agreements into concrete action. He noted that, ahead of the meeting, the French delegation held discussions with senior ministry officials and technical specialists to address key issues and prepare for projects aimed at developing Iraq's pharmaceutical industry and establishing hospitals, particularly those specializing in cancer treatment.

Al-Mousawi pointed out that Iraq's health sector faces significant challenges in terms of capacity and infrastructure, noting that the current number of hospital beds available for cancer patients meets no more than one-third of actual needs. This underscores the importance of strengthening healthcare capabilities and expanding specialized treatment facilities.

He added that discussions with French business leaders and companies specializing in medical and healthcare services also seek to benefit from advanced international expertise, explore investment opportunities, facilitate knowledge and technology transfer, and localize modern healthcare technologies in Iraq.

Riyadh Al-Asadi