Minister of Health in the caretaker government, Firas White, noted after meeting with the Speaker of Parliament, Nabih Berri, in Ain al-Tineh, that "we discussed, in general, matters concerning the health sector in Lebanon, and the main topic of conversation was funding, particularly the budget for the Ministry of Health which is part of the 2024 budget. What we care about as the Ministry of Health is to maintain and enhance this budget so that we can fulfill our obligations towards citizens."
He continued, saying, "Also, in this matter, we talked about the new procedures being implemented by the Central Bank, and we are, of course, concerned about ensuring that these procedures do not affect the entry of medication, especially for cancer and other serious illnesses in Lebanon. As a government, we are committed to finding pharmaceutical solutions for these patients, and with the support of the President, we hope to fulfill our responsibilities towards those patients."
White highlighted, "I informed the President about our trip to the United States, which included a visit to the World Bank regarding the new loan that will be allocated to the health sector in Lebanon, specifically covering primary healthcare and hospitalization. We also discussed visits to the Lebanese medical communities and frameworks for collaboration with them. Of course, we know that Lebanon has a very large Lebanese medical community abroad, and this community is very interested in cooperating with Lebanon, especially with the healthcare system. The frameworks for collaboration we have established will help the healthcare system to endure and continue to provide services to its people."
He concluded: "Finally, there were some topics related to the healthcare system concerning the Ministry of Health's policies regarding tobacco or primary healthcare. I want to assure everyone that, within the vision set by the ministry, whether in the area of health strategy or the national cancer program, our goal, especially this month, is to maintain citizen health, with a particular priority for cancer patients. We also want to broaden our approach, not only focusing on treatment but also on cancer from prevention to early diagnosis, and finally treatment and the post-treatment phase, so that the patient can return to normal life."
Additionally, the Speaker of Parliament discussed general conditions, political developments, and developmental and demand-related issues during his meeting with MP Walid Baali, who left without making a statement. In the afternoon, President Berri received Mr. Tawfiq Sultan.
