NEW DELHI — Dr. Hisham Aljadhey, Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), led Saudi Arabia's delegation at the 19th Annual Meeting of the International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA) held in New Delhi, India, from October 14 to 18, 2024.
The event, inaugurated by Anupriya Patel, Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, was hosted by the Government of India, the Central Drug Standards Control Organization (CDSCO), and the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO).
As a key gathering for regulatory bodies, the ICDRA aims to enhance cooperation and share experiences to formulate essential recommendations for drug regulation. This year’s theme, "Smart Regulation: Providing Quality-Assured Medical Products for All," addressed critical topics such as regulatory reforms, medical product safety, and the regulation of innovative technologies.
Dr. Aljadhey emphasized the importance of international collaboration, stating, “The presence of member states is a testament to our shared goals of ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of medical products worldwide. As we discuss ‘Smart Regulation,’ I am confident that our collective efforts will yield innovative solutions and strengthened regulatory frameworks. By fostering collaboration, harmonization, and knowledge sharing, we can address the challenges of today's dynamic regulatory landscape and improve healthcare outcomes for people globally.”
The SFDA's participation underscores Saudi Arabia's commitment to engaging with international regulatory authorities, exchanging strategic plans, and prioritizing work in drug and vaccine regulation.
The ICDRA, established in 1980 and organized biennially by the WHO, convenes regulatory authorities from WHO member states to promote cooperation and the exchange of expertise, ultimately aiming to issue vital recommendations that enhance drug regulation and ensure the safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals worldwide. — SG
