Al-Qushaan: Receiving the Global Health Medal is an honor for Kuwait and a recognition of trust in it

Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Qushaan confirmed on Saturday that the Global Health Medal he received represents an honor for the State of Kuwait and an acknowledgment of the trust placed in it. This statement was made by Al-Qushaan in an interview with the Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) on the occasion of the World Health Organization (WHO) awarding him the Global Health Medal in recognition of his leadership in coordinating the positions of countries in the Eastern Mediterranean Region from 2024 to 2026, and his role in enhancing consensus among member states on international health issues.

The award ceremony took place during the 73rd session of the WHO Regional Committee for the Eastern Mediterranean, which concluded its proceedings in Cairo the day before yesterday. The session was attended by health ministers, heads of delegations from regional countries, and WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

Dr. Al-Qushaan stated that this recognition reflects the confidence of Eastern Mediterranean Region countries, which entrusted Kuwait with the coordination role over the past two years. He added that the achieved consensus was the result of collective efforts involving experts, diplomats from member states, and the WHO Regional Office team. He praised the support of Kuwait’s political leadership, as well as the efforts of the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Health, and their cooperation with Kuwait’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations and international organizations in Geneva.

He clarified that consensus in health negotiations is achieved by listening to all parties, engaging in dialogue, and working to find common ground. He emphasized the importance of continued coordination among member states and expressed good wishes for Pakistan’s representative, who currently holds the coordination role.

The award follows Kuwait’s successful leadership of a Gulf initiative that led to the 79th World Health Assembly adopting, in May 2026, a resolution addressing the health implications of Iranian attacks on civilian infrastructure, supply chains, and energy facilities in the region, as well as the impact of disruptions to navigation in the Strait of Hormuz on global health.

Dr. Al-Qushaan drafted the resolution proposal submitted by the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Jordan, which received broad Gulf, Arab, and international support. He led the negotiations on the resolution, with 47 countries joining the list of sponsors. The inclusion of the related agenda item in the Assembly’s schedule was approved by a majority of 95 votes against 8.

During the award ceremony, Ghebreyesus praised Dr. Al-Qushaan’s leadership and efforts in bridging differences and uniting member states around common positions. He expressed appreciation for Kuwait’s efforts and its long-standing partnership in supporting health programs, particularly in Yemen and Gaza, as well as its contributions to protecting children, promoting healthy aging, and supporting populations during crises.

The regional coordinator is elected by member states of the Eastern Mediterranean Region to represent them in WHO meetings and negotiations, including the World Health Assembly, the Executive Board, and international negotiations.

Dr. Al-Qushaan currently serves as a member of the Joint International Working Group on the Reform of the Global Health Architecture.