Dr. Hisham Aljadhey, Chief Executive Officer of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), led Saudi Arabia’s delegation to the 19th Annual International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA) in New Delhi, India, on October 14-18, 2024.
The Central Drug Standards Control Organisation (CDSCO) and the Ministry of Health and Welfare worked together to organise this high-profile event, which Anupriya Patel, India’s Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, opened. The World Health Organisation (WHO) played an important role in co-hosting the meeting.
ICDRA provides a forum for worldwide regulatory bodies to collaborate, share knowledge, and develop suggestions aimed at improving drug regulatory processes. This year’s subject, “Smart Regulation: Providing Quality-Assured Medical Products for All,” addressed medical product safety, regulatory changes, and the governance of cutting-edge health innovations.
During his remarks, Dr. Aljadhey emphasised the need for international collaboration in maintaining medical product safety. “Our discussions on ‘Smart Regulation’ will drive innovative solutions and strengthen global frameworks, enhancing healthcare outcomes for all,” according to him.
The ICDRA, which has been held biennially since 1980, brings together WHO member states to enhance drug regulation cooperation and public safety through improved regulatory standards.