Ministry of Health Undersecretary receives Finnish Delegation Headed by Minister of Foreign Trade and Development

UAE, November 3, 2015- Ministry of Health Undersecretary H.E. Dr. Muhammad Salim Al Olama recently received at his office in Dubai a delegation from Finland led by H.E. Lenita Toivakka, Minister of Foreign Trade and Development, and Finnish Ambassador to the UAE Rita Swan. Both parties met to discuss optimal ways to improve their cooperation in several areas of the health sector, including healthcare services, preventive health measures, exchange visits, open exchange of expertise, and development of advanced solutions for more integrated health systems. 

The discussions mainly revolved around the following topics: the creation of a database for medical research; the benefits of medical research and clean energy in laboratories; use of the latest technologies to reduce medical errors; medical education and training programs such as exchange visits; the role of the latest technologies and medical equipment in critical surgeries; and better hospital management and governance. 

H.E. Dr. Al Olama said: “In line with National Innovation Strategy launched by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, we hold similar meetings with our foreign counterparts to raise the standards of local healthcare services being delivered to all citizens and residents. The dialogues are also aligned with the UAE Government’s move to shift towards a knowledge-based economy by encouraging the practical application of knowledge to improve the quality of health services in accordance with the highest international standards.”

“The Ministry aims to build a sustainable infrastructure for medical research and gain access to future information technology for medical field. We hope to apply virtual simulations of clinical techniques and utilize robots in surgical operations to substantially raise the standards in the sector. Putting in place the best medical practices and achieving efficiency in healthcare services within the Ministry-run health facilities are also part of our goals,” the Undersecretary added.

H.E. Lenita Toivakka praised the UAE’s accelerated progress and development in a short period of time. She commented the state for its outstanding record in medical technology and healthcare which are at par with the European Health Consumer Index. H.E. Lenita Toivakka said she hopes to see close collaborations between Finland’s companies and the UAE Ministry of Health.