Qatar’s Shura Council has examined the National Health Strategy 2024–2030 during its regular weekly session, underscoring the importance of enhancing preventive healthcare, elevating patient services, and advancing digital transformation across the health sector.

The session, chaired by Speaker HE Hassan bin Abdullah Al Ghanim, was attended by Minister of Public Health HE Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud alongside senior ministry officials, who presented key priorities and implementation plans outlined in the strategy.

At the outset, the council issued a strong condemnation of a recent drone attack targeting a commercial vessel within Qatar’s territorial waters, describing the act as a serious threat to maritime safety and regional stability. Members warned that such incidents could disrupt global trade routes and essential supply chains, while stressing the need to uphold international law and ensure freedom of navigation.

During the discussion, HE Al Ghanim commended Qatar’s continued focus on the healthcare sector under the leadership of the Amir, HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. He highlighted that the new strategy provides a comprehensive framework aimed at fostering a healthier society supported by a sustainable and forward-looking healthcare system.

HE Al Mahmoud outlined that the strategy is built on three main pillars: improving public health and wellbeing, enhancing the overall patient experience and healthcare services, and reinforcing the efficiency and resilience of the healthcare system. He noted that addressing non-communicable diseases such as obesity and diabetes remains a key priority, with initiatives focused on awareness campaigns, preventive programmes, and early detection.

The minister added that the government is continuing efforts to advance the national health insurance system, strengthen healthcare financing, and improve coordination between public and private sector providers. Plans are also in place to expand mental health services, boost emergency preparedness, and accelerate digital transformation through integrated health data platforms and the use of artificial intelligence.

Council members, in turn, highlighted the need to reduce waiting times for medical appointments, enhance access to healthcare services, and further strengthen primary and preventive care. They also called for increased investment in medical research and innovation, along with broader mental health awareness initiatives, particularly targeting youth.

In other business, the council referred a draft law regulating petrol stations to the Economic and Financial Affairs Committee for further review. The Speaker also briefed members on the participation of a Shura Council delegation in the first summit of parliamentary speakers and presidents under the Parliamentary Assembly of the Mediterranean (PAM), as well as the assembly’s 20th session held in Montenegro.

HE Al Ghanim noted that discussions during the international gathering focused on parliamentary diplomacy and strengthening democratic resilience. He added that his address at the summit emphasised the importance of fostering dialogue and cooperation among parliaments to address regional and global challenges.