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JEDDAH: �������� marked World Animal Day, observed annually on Oct. 4, to raise awareness about animal protection and care while intensifying efforts to advance global animal welfare standards.

The Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture leads the Kingdom’s efforts by organizing exhibitions and events for all segments of society, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

It aims to strengthen communication with stakeholders and support veterinary facilities.

The Saudi Animal Welfare Society, also known as Refq, complements these efforts by promoting a culture of animal welfare in line with Islamic teachings, working to reduce the spread of stray animals through scientific principles, providing treatment and shelter, facilitating re-adoption, and curbing poaching, the SPA reported.

The society also coordinates with regional and international associations, trains interested parties, consults with government and private agencies to overcome obstacles, and represents the Kingdom in international animal welfare forums.

RIYADH: Jasem Albudaiwi, secretary-general of the Gulf Cooperation Council, praised the progress of the region’s health system at the 11th meeting of the Committee of GCC Health Ministers chaired by president of the session Ahmed Al-Awadhi, Kuwaiti minister of health, in Kuwait on Saturday.

Albudaiwi highlighted advances in disease prevention, workforce training and medical services, saying the region now surpasses global averages in health indices, according to a report by the General Secretariat.

“The GCC countries are working in partnership with the World Health Organization on the project to accredit the Healthy Cities Program, which seeks to achieve the highest level of health and well-being in sustainable and socially effective cities,” he said.