The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), according to a press release, is hosting the Regional Expert Joint Meeting on Nutrition Policies for the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMRO) in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO). The meeting, held at the SFDA's headquarters in Riyadh from October 20 to 21, 2024, aims to enhance efforts to improve nutritional status in the region. The event has brought together international nutrition and economic policy experts, along with representatives from EMRO Member States.
The meeting was opened by SFDA Chief Executive Officer Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey, who welcomed all attendees. Dr. Aljadhey emphasized the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's commitment to promoting healthy nutrition. Through the SFDA, the Kingdom is actively developing policies and legislation to encourage healthier dietary habits, and is sharing its expertise with other EMRO Member States to strengthen their capabilities in addressing nutrition-related health challenges.
He highlighted the crucial role of healthy food systems in improving public health and reducing the economic burden associated with nutrition-related diseases. Dr. Aljadhey also stressed the importance of nutritional policies and legislation in promoting healthy and sustainable food systems, noting how these policies can significantly improve public health and quality of life across the region. Furthermore, he emphasized the need for greater international and regional cooperation to strengthen food systems and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals aimed at reducing malnutrition and preventing premature deaths caused by chronic diseases.