Royal opening for Leaders in Healthcare
Princess Haya warns of implications for health of global financial crisis
HRH Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, wife of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, today (Monday 26 January 2009) delivered the opening keynote address to Leaders in Healthcare, one of 18 conferences that make up the Arab Health Congress.
The event includes conferences such as the Healthcare Management Forum, ME Urology Update and ME International Cardiovascular Conference.
Arab Health, which runs until 29 January 2009 at Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre, is the Middle East’s biggest gathering of medical and healthcare professionals.
Speaking of the challenges facing healthcare, Princess Haya warned that the global financial crisis would have profound implications for health and social welfare programmes and the poor and impoverished could be the first to suffer. “We cannot claim we are achieving leadership in medical advances if more than nine million children in 2007 died before reaching the age of five,” she added. Present at the conference was HE Humaid Al Qtami, Minister of Health, HE Qadi Al Mroushed, Director General of Dubai Health Authority and other delegations.
Princess Haya quoted HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum: “Unlike others, we are not content to settle for what was accomplished in the past, because life doesn't stop.” She added: “I cannot think of a more appropriate time for his words to appeal as we look towards 2020 and 2030.”
Following the speech, Her Royal Highness toured the exhibition area which attracts regional and international healthcare professionals. She visited Dubai Health Authority stand and listened to an overview on of Sheikha Al Jalila Children Hospital model.
Princess Haya, a vocal advocate of humanitarian causes, has taken a high profile public role speaking on public welfare issues in the UAE and the Middle East. Princess Haya is also chair of Dubai’s International Humanitarian City and is a United Nations Messenger of Peace.
“We have been both delighted and honoured by the presence of HRH Princess Haya,” said Jessica Sutherland, General Manager of IIR Middle East, organisers of Arab Health events.
More than 50,000 medical and healthcare professionals are taking part in Arab Health which is by far the biggest gathering of its kind in the region showcasing the latest medical technologies and clinical research. It has been a sell-out in terms of exhibitor space, say the organisers.
Arab Health is backed by the Ministry of Health of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai Health Authority and the Health Authority of Abu Dhabi.
For further information please visit: www.arabhealthonline.com
