JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia, Nov 16: The Fourth High-Level Global Ministerial Conference on Antimicrobial Resistance officially began in Jeddah on Friday, with the participation of Kuwaiti Health Minister Dr. Ahmad Al-Awadhi. In his opening speech, Saudi Health Minister Fahad Al-Jalajel emphasized that Saudi Arabia's hosting of the conference highlights the Kingdom's strong commitment to addressing this growing global challenge, which impacts human health, animal and plant life, and hinders economic and social progress.

Minister Al-Jalajel stressed that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical issue affecting all aspects of life. This "silent epidemic" is expected to cause over one million deaths annually, surpassing the combined death toll from HIV and malaria. If current trends continue, by 2050 AMR could result in 39 million deaths, a 4% global GDP decrease, and a staggering $100 trillion cost to the global economy. He also acknowledged the progress made at previous ministerial conferences, including those hosted by the Netherlands and Oman, which have contributed to shaping a global strategy to combat AMR.

He praised the UN General Assembly's recent declaration, highlighting its role in uniting efforts to confront AMR. The ongoing conference, with the largest number of participating countries in its history, provides a significant opportunity to strengthen the global response to the issue.

Saudi Deputy Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture, Eng. Mansour Al-Mushaiti, echoed similar concerns, emphasizing that AMR is now a more pressing threat than ever, impacting human health, safety, and global food systems. He noted that rising microbial resistance leads to higher agricultural production costs and reduced productivity, which, in turn, raises food prices and threatens ecosystems. Al-Mushaiti also underscored the importance of addressing AMR through a "One Health" approach, recognizing its interconnected risks to human, animal, and environmental health.

Oman’s Health Minister Dr. Hilal Al Sabti warned that AMR endangers health and sustainable development globally. He highlighted that nearly five million deaths in 2019 were linked to drug-resistant infections, with a potential drastic reduction in life expectancy by 2035. Al Sabti also cited the economic implications of AMR, predicting healthcare costs could reach one trillion dollars annually by 2050.

The Kuwaiti delegation at the conference, led by Minister Al-Awadhi, also included Dr. Munther Al-Hasawi, Assistant Undersecretary for Public Health Affairs, Dr. Dhari Al-Hashash, Director of the Minister's Office, Dr. Abdul Latif Jamal, Supervisor of the Minister’s Office, and Dr. Hussein Al-Shammari, Head of the Antibiotic Resistance Unit. The Kuwaiti Consulate General in Jeddah was represented by Acting Chargé d'Affaires, Minister Plenipotentiary Nasser Al-Khalidi.

Over 40 ministers from the health, environment, and agriculture sectors, along with heads of international organizations and NGOs, are participating in the conference, which will conclude on Saturday. The Kingdom’s hosting of this conference is a reflection of its leadership in health at both regional and global levels, aligning with its Vision 2030 by supporting initiatives that improve global health.

The conference aims to enhance international cooperation, promote the "One Health" approach, and develop sustainable solutions to address antimicrobial resistance, ensuring global health security. It serves as a platform for stakeholders from governments, NGOs, scientists, and policymakers to collaborate on combating AMR and finding effective, lasting solutions to mitigate its impact on public health. (KUNA)