Minister of Public Health in the Lebanese caretaker government Dr Firas al-Abiad voiced appreciation of the support provided by Qatar and its charities to Lebanon, especially in relation to the health sector, QNA reported from Beirut.
This came at a press conference, during which Dr al-Abiad announced receiving medical assistance for the Lebanese ministries of interior and public health, funded by Qatar Charity (QC) and executed by Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS) with a total value of QR3.65mn, in continuation of the assistance provided in support of the Lebanese health sector to face the current economic challenges.
The grant consisted chronic diseases medications, including 11 categories that are most in need, according to the ministry. About 70% of these medicines are allocated for free distribution to patients in 240 primary health care centres, while the remaining 30% are allocated for the Ministry of Interior and Municipalities, for distribution to pharmacies of the Internal Security Forces (ISF).
Lebanon's health minister also referred to the important and numerous programmes implemented by QRCS in Lebanon, the latest of which was the co-operation to provide drinking water to the Lebanese as well as refugees in Arsal and other regions.
Director-General of the ISF Major General Imad Othman extended his appreciation to the Qatari embassy in Lebanon, QC and QRCS for the assistance and underscored its significance in the provision of medical services to over 150,000 beneficiaries from the ISF personnel and their families, as well as retirees.
Head of QRCS mission in Lebanon Dr Mohamed al-Sousi said the grant affirms keenness to support the health sector in Lebanon.
Emergency and Relief Department at Qatar Charity Khaled al-Yafei said the assistance comes in the framework of QC's attention to the health sector.