The 19th Annual Meeting of the International Conference of Drug Regulatory Authorities (ICDRA) was recently held in New Delhi, India, from October 14 to 18, 2024. Dr. Hisham Aljadhey, CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), led Saudi Arabia’s delegation at the event. The conference, hosted by the Government of India, the Central Drug Standards Control Organization (CDSCO), and the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO), aimed to enhance cooperation and share experiences to formulate essential recommendations for drug regulation.
The theme of this year’s ICDRA was “Smart Regulation: Providing Quality-Assured Medical Products for All.” The conference addressed critical topics such as regulatory reforms, medical product safety, and the regulation of innovative technologies. Dr. Aljadhey emphasized the importance of international collaboration in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of medical products worldwide. He expressed confidence that collective efforts would yield innovative solutions and strengthened regulatory frameworks. By fostering collaboration, harmonization, and knowledge sharing, the conference aimed to address the challenges of today’s regulatory landscape and improve global healthcare outcomes.
Saudi Arabia’s participation in the ICDRA highlighted the country’s commitment to engaging with international regulatory authorities, exchanging strategic plans, and prioritizing work in drug and vaccine regulation. The SFDA’s involvement underscored the importance of cooperation and collaboration in addressing global healthcare challenges. The ICDRA, established in 1980 and organized biennially by the WHO, brings together regulatory authorities from WHO member states to promote cooperation and exchange expertise. The conference aims to issue vital recommendations that enhance drug regulation and ensure the safety and efficacy of pharmaceuticals worldwide.
As a key gathering for regulatory bodies, the ICDRA plays a crucial role in shaping international drug regulation policies. The conference provides a platform for regulatory authorities to come together, share experiences, and discuss best practices in drug regulation. By addressing critical topics such as regulatory reforms and medical product safety, the conference helps to improve the quality and effectiveness of pharmaceutical products worldwide. Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, regulatory authorities can work towards creating innovative solutions and enhancing global healthcare outcomes.
Dr. Aljadhey’s participation at the ICDRA reflects Saudi Arabia’s dedication to promoting international cooperation in drug regulation. By attending the conference and engaging with regulatory authorities from around the world, Saudi Arabia demonstrates its commitment to ensuring the safety and efficacy of medical products. The SFDA’s involvement in the conference showcases the organization’s proactive approach to addressing global healthcare challenges and working towards innovative solutions. Overall, the ICDRA provides a valuable platform for regulatory authorities to collaborate, share expertise, and enhance drug regulation policies to benefit people worldwide.
