Doha: Under the patronage of HE Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, HE Minister of Public Health Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud inaugurated the 6th Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit today. The two-day event is hosted by the State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Public Health.
According to Qatar News Agency, the opening ceremony was attended by Their Excellencies the Ministers, representatives of states, international and regional organizations concerned with mental health, as well as experts and specialists from across the globe. The Ministerial Summit is held under the theme “Transforming Mental Health through Investment, Innovation and Digital Solutions.”
In his opening speech, HE Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud emphasized the importance of the Summit, viewing it as an opportunity to advance mental health globally through a shared vision for a healthier and more inclusive future. He highlighted Qatar’s commitment to public health under the leadership of HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, as part of the Qatar National Vision 2030.
HE the Minister of Public Health discussed various national strategies aimed at promoting mental well-being, including an integrated system for timely and appropriate care. He stressed the integration of mental health across sectors, aligning with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3 on good health and well-being.
At the international level, the State of Qatar is committed to working with its partners to prevent and address international crises, supporting long-term development policies, particularly for those most in need. HE Mansoor bin Ebrahim Al Mahmoud highlighted the rising demand for mental health services due to various global factors, emphasizing mental health as a fundamental human right.
The Summit aims to translate commitments into actions involving governments and society. It aligns with the WHO Comprehensive Mental Health Action Plan 2013-2030, focusing on regional initiatives. Key topics include investment, innovation, digital solutions, and integrating mental health into policy frameworks for economic prosperity and social cohesion.
This Summit, the first in the Middle East, aims to strengthen international cooperation and partnerships, underscoring the need for increased investment in mental health as a foundation for public health and sustainable development. HE the Minister of Public Health concluded by urging united action to promote mental health for current and future generations.
In a recorded address, HE Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations Amina Mohammed called for decisive action to make mental health a fundamental pillar of universal health coverage. HE Director-General of the World Health Organization Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus highlighted the challenges and opportunities in global mental health, emphasizing the need for strong policies and practices.
The Summit features a comprehensive program of sessions, panel discussions, and workshops, aiming to address mental health as integral to public health, social justice, and human rights, in line with relevant UN resolutions and conventions.
The Sixth Global Ministerial Mental Health Summit seeks to exchange best practices, develop actionable strategies, and promote investment in mental health research and innovation.