Saudi health minister discusses partnership and innovation with Portugal

During his official visit to Portugal, Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel met with Professor Adalberto Campos Fernandes, adviser to the Portuguese president and supervisor of the national health strategic charter, as well as former minister of health.

The two sides discussed their countries' experiences in healthcare transformation, strategic frameworks for developing health systems, and ways to enhance population health and preventive care. They also exchanged expertise on a range of health topics of mutual interest.

Al-Jalajel also met with Gonçalo Matias, Portugal's minister for state reform, to explore opportunities for cooperation and knowledge exchange in institutional transformation, healthcare sector performance, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, and innovation. The discussions included a review of Saudi Arabia's healthcare transformation and the progress achieved in strengthening the Kingdom's global role in shaping the future of health.

Saudi Ambassador to Portugal Ali Al-Yousef attended both meetings.

The minister also visited Santa Maria University Hospital and the Gulbenkian Institute of Molecular Medicine, where he reviewed leading practices in healthcare, medical and molecular research, and the use of innovative technologies and solutions. The visits included discussions on cooperation and knowledge exchange to advance health services and support research and innovation.

The visit is part of Saudi Arabia's ongoing efforts to strengthen health cooperation with Portugal, expand partnership in shared health priorities, exchange pioneering experiences, and explore opportunities for developing high-impact collaborations in healthcare and innovation. These efforts aim to improve the efficiency, sustainability, and quality of health systems and services.