Riyadh, August 20, 2023, In a momentous development, the G20 health ministers, in collaboration with the esteemed World Health Organization (WHO), unveiled a groundbreaking initiative known as the Global Initiative on Digital Health (GIDH). The government of India graciously hosted the highly anticipated G20 Health Ministers Meeting during which this historic event took place. In an effort to bolster the implementation of the Global Strategy on Digital Health 2020–2025, a groundbreaking initiative known as GIDH has been unveiled. The World Health Organization (WHO) will be in charge of overseeing this initiative, which aims to create a comprehensive network and platform. Its primary objective is to provide robust support for the realization of the aforementioned global strategy. In an effort to streamline global standards, best practices, and resources, the goal is to establish a rapid digital health system. During the inauguration of the initiative, Minister of Health Fahad Al-Jalajel expressed his gratitude towards the G20 Indian Presidency for their unwavering commitment to addressing digital health matters. This dedication to the cause was initially initiated during Saudi Arabia's presidency in 2020.
In a significant development, Al-Jalajel has been extended an invitation by the Indian presidency to engage in discussions pertaining to the realms of health, digital transformation, and artificial intelligence within the Kingdom. Notably, this includes shedding light on the Seha Virtual Hospital, a prominent healthcare initiative aligned with the Saudi Vision 2030. In a statement issued today, WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus expressed his gratitude towards the G20 countries and the India G20 Presidency for their recognition of the World Health Organization's (WHO) crucial role in this particular domain. Dr. Tedros also commended their unwavering support for the creation of the Global Infectious Disease Hub (GIDH) network. On a momentous occasion, India's Union Health Minister, Dr. Mansukh Mandaviya, expressed his enthusiasm at the launch of the G20 Health Working Group. During his address, he highlighted the significance of the event, emphasizing that it marked a pivotal moment in the history of the group. Dr. Mandaviya further emphasized that the G20 countries not only recognized the importance of the group's objectives but also collaborated collectively to ensure its successful establishment. During the launch event, a noteworthy World Bank report was unveiled, shedding light on the crucial significance of technology and data in our everyday lives. The report also emphasized the growing need for healthcare systems to adapt and offer novel services to cater to the demands of all individuals.
