Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture Inaugurates ‘WOAH’ Regional Workshop
His Excellency Eng. Wael bin Nasser Al Mubarak, Minister of Municipalities Affairs and Agriculture, inaugurated the Regional Workshop of the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) for the Middle East Region, held in the Kingdom of Bahrain from 14 to 16 October under the title “Enhancing the Implementation of the One Health Approach Through the Joint Action Plan.” In attendance are representatives, experts, and specialists from 14 countries across the region.
The Minister stressed that hosting the workshop demonstrates the Kingdom of Bahrain’s commitment to advancing international efforts to strengthen animal health while reinforcing its role as an active partner in related regional and global initiatives. He underscored that the One Health approach is fundamental to promoting health and food security, preventing zoonotic diseases, and supporting the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
The opening session featured remarks by Dr. Fajur Al Salloom, Vice President of the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) and Bahrain’s Delegate to the Organization; Dr. Ahmed Al Majali, WOAH Regional Representative for the Middle East; and Dr. Thibaut Marquez, Representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The speakers highlighted the need to strengthen regional cooperation and foster closer coordination among international organizations to advance the One Health approach and tackle shared health challenges.
The ceremony also featured a recognition of the collaborating company, Boehringer, along with an award presented by WOAH to the Kingdom of Bahrain in appreciation of its role in hosting the workshop. The event will continue with sessions focusing on the Joint Action Plan for the One Health Approach and presentations of national success stories in its implementation, including Bahrain’s experience in strengthening preparedness and response to health emergencies affecting humans, animals, and the environment.