RIYADH, 21 August 2005 — Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding in the health sector when Czech Health Minister Milada Emerova visits the Kingdom early next year. The visit follows an invitation from Saudi Health Minister Hamad Al-Manie, according to deputy head of the Czech Mission Tomas Strnad.
“The memorandum of understanding, which was proposed by Saudi Arabia, aims to strengthen the cooperation between the two countries in the health sector. It will be beneficial for both countries,” Strnad told Arab News yesterday.
The MOU will pave way for more Saudi students to enter the world-class Czech medical schools. Already there are many Saudi students enrolled in different Czech institutions. It will also open up job opportunities for Czech nationals in the Kingdom’s health sector.
Strnad said that at present, the embassy is trying to organize a 30-member delegation to be headed by Emerova who is reciprocating Al-Manie’s visit to Prague last year. “The bilateral visits are certainly strengthening the ties between the two countries,” Strnad said.
He added that the situation of Czech medical workers in the Kingdom will likely be discussed. At present there are about 20 Czech doctors and 100 nurses working in various Saudi hospitals and health facilities.
“Our health workers are highly qualified because they underwent excellent medical education in the country’s universities. They are also competitive as far as salaries are concerned. One reason why they want to come here is the state-of-the-art technology and equipment in the Kingdom’s hospitals. They want to learn and benefit from these,” he said. Czech health workers started coming to the Kingdom in 2000.
Strnad said the Kingdom is a big market for Czech medical equipment and the delegation will bring businessmen who will meet with their Saudi counterparts to explore the possibility of exporting their products to the country.
He noted that there has also been an increasing number of Saudis visiting the Czech Republic, mainly because of its spas.
“Czech spas have become very popular all over the world, especially among Saudis who have been visiting our country regularly for medical treatment,” he said.
In Karlovy Vivary, a popular destination for foreigners seeking medical treatment, there is a building with one whole floor reserved for Saudi visitors. “In the past, we used to issue 4,000-5,000 visas yearly. This year, we hope to issue 7,000,” Strnad said.
