KUWAIT: The Kuwait Pharmaceutical Association (KPA) signed the Copenhagen Declaration on Combating Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), joining global efforts to strengthen cooperation in tackling one of the world’s most pressing health challenges. The declaration outlines commitments to building partnerships, promoting vaccination, ensuring the rational use of antibiotics, safeguarding pharmaceutical supply chains, and expanding the evidence base for good governance and care outcomes.
The signing took place during the 83rd World Congress of the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP), held in Copenhagen under the theme “Advancing Pharmacy: Performance, Collaboration, and Health Transformation.” A delegation from KPA participated in the event, with board member Dr Bader Al-Khurainij representing the association during the signing ceremony. Speaking to KUNA by phone, Al-Khurainij said the declaration was adopted during the general session titled “Working Together for One Health: Strengthening Global Cooperation to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance.”
Al-Khurainij, a member of the FIP Supreme Council, noted that the conference focused on accelerating pharmaceutical practice and expanding the professional role of pharmacists worldwide. He added that the council voted on several key policies, including the use of artificial intelligence in pharmacy practice, positioning pharmacy as a gateway to self-care, promoting human-centered pharmaceutical care, and enhancing the role of pharmacists in tackling non-communicable diseases and public health. He also highlighted the election of Dr Nadia Al-Mazrouei from the UAE as FIP Vice President, who secured broad regional support in a closely contested vote.
The Kuwaiti delegation, led by KPA Treasurer Walaa Ma’arifi, also toured community pharmacies in Copenhagen to learn how they are integrated into the Danish healthcare system. They were briefed on licensing requirements and services such as preparing pre-filled doses, pharmaceutical consultations and immunization programs. The delegation further took part in the International Sports Pharmacy Symposium, held with the participation of the International Olympic Committee and anti-doping bodies, where discussions centered on pharmacists’ role in sports medicine, raising awareness on doping risks, and strengthening training programs for Kuwaiti pharmacists in this field.
KPA President Dr Faisal Al-Enezi emphasized the association’s commitment to expanding cooperation with international professional organizations, particularly in supporting young pharmacists through student programs and partnerships with the International Federation of Pharmacy Students (IFPS). He said these initiatives aim to prepare a new generation of leaders, enhance research and training opportunities, and align pharmaceutical policies in Kuwait with global best practices.
During the congress, KPA also held preliminary talks with the American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, the American College of Clinical Pharmacy, the Council of Pharmacy Specialties, and FIP regional forums to explore new areas of cooperation. Al-Enezi stressed that these efforts not only strengthen Kuwait’s representation internationally but also open new horizons for advancing pharmacy practice and supporting national healthcare development. — KUNA
