The Minister of Public Health in the caretaker government, Firas Al-Abyad, held a meeting with the Board of the Pharmacists’ Syndicate to discuss ways to coordinate between the ministry and the syndicate to enhance awareness and advise citizens against medicines that are not licensed by the ministry and are sold through various illegal means. The discussions also covered activating cooperation in tracking medicines through the MediTrack system for the public interest, ensuring that citizens receive the medications they need in an organized and guaranteed manner, as well as supporting pharmacists in fulfilling their professional duties without facing accusations of trafficking in drugs.
During his address at the meeting, Minister Al-Abyad urged the Pharmacists’ Syndicate and all relevant stakeholders in the health sector, particularly the pharmaceutical sector, to "avoid creating overly negative public atmospheres and to handle the current difficult and sensitive phase responsibly." He stated, "The professional duty requires all those working in the health sector, especially pharmacists, to notify citizens about the necessity of using only medications licensed by the Ministry of Public Health, as well as collaborating with the ministry to assist in its efforts to close the gaps that still hinder the optimal organization of the drug file."
Minister Al-Abyad emphasized that the ministry "will continue to combat smuggled and counterfeit medicines as soon as it receives any indication regarding this matter." He mentioned, "A quick check of the ministry's website shows referrals to the judiciary for individuals trafficking in smuggled and counterfeit drugs." He added, "In the same context, the fight against illegal pharmacies continues, as well as legal pharmacies that violate laws." He affirmed that "work is ongoing with daily and diligent follow-up to organize the drug file, aiming to put an end to the rampant chaos that has prevailed for decades, costing the state's budget billions, benefiting only those who amassed wealth and fortune."
