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Iran Explores Enhanced Health Collaborations with Switzerland and Saudi Arabia
At the 78th World Health Assembly in Geneva, Iranian Health Minister Mohammad-Reza Zafarqandi discussed enhancing health cooperation with Swiss and Saudi counterparts. He emphasized expanding collaboration with Switzerland, focusing on a joint economic committee meeting in September, and supporting Swiss companies in Iran. Zafarqandi and Saudi Health Minister Fahad bin Abdurrahman Al-Jalajel signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen health diplomacy, targeting areas like global health security and smart hospitals. The assembly, themed “One World for Health,” addresses pressing global health challenges, with Zafarqandi presenting insights on Iran’s health system and engaging with various countries to bolster international ties.
Celebrate the Cosmos: National Astronomy Week Kicks Off with Celestial Events!
National Astronomy Week will be held from April 28 to May 5, themed ‘The Night Sky, Education and Promotion of Science’. This initiative aims to enhance public appreciation for astronomy and its educational value. Iran will celebrate its Astronomy Day on May 2, coinciding with National Teacher’s Day. Unlike previous years, there will be no specific daily themes, allowing for creative event planning. Activities will include observation sessions, workshops, and exhibitions. The week encourages community engagement, aiming to inspire curiosity about the cosmos and promote lifelong interest in science. Mark your calendars for this enriching experience!
$100 Million Investment Boosts AI Development: A Game Changer for Innovation
Iran has taken a significant step in advancing its artificial intelligence (AI) sector with a $100 million fund established through a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Vice Presidency for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy and the National Development Fund. The initiative aims to align AI development with Iran’s national development plan (2023-2027) and promote collaboration between universities and the private sector. Additionally, Iran’s ranking in the Government AI Readiness Index has improved from 94th to 91st out of 188 countries, reflecting advancements in data and infrastructure, although challenges remain in governance and technology pillars.
UNICEF and ISCC Join Forces to Empower Children: A New Era of Support
UNICEF has partnered with the Iran-Switzerland Chamber of Commerce (ISCC) for a three-year initiative to enhance the welfare of vulnerable children in Iran. The partnership, formalized on January 12, 2025, will focus on financial support, knowledge sharing, skill development, and nutritional assistance. UNICEF’s representative expressed optimism about the collaboration’s potential to improve children’s lives. Additionally, UNICEF has formed other partnerships, including a three-year agreement with the Book City Institute to promote reading and literacy, and with the Iran-Austria Joint Chamber of Commerce for financial mobilization. These initiatives highlight the growing role of businesses in supporting child welfare in Iran.
New Funding Boost: Special Budget Set Aside for Rare and Challenging Diseases
The Iranian government has allocated 120 billion rials (approximately $144,000) to enhance healthcare access for rare diseases, which affect over 300 million people globally. The Salamat Health Insurance Organization, in partnership with the Ministry of Health, established the Rare Disease Foundation to reduce out-of-pocket costs and promote health equity. Currently, it covers 130 rare diseases, benefiting over 2.5 million patients. The foundation focuses heavily on cancer treatments, which consume about 70% of its budget. Celebrated on May 8, World Thalassemia Day raises awareness of thalassemia, which affects over 19,000 patients in Iran, highlighting the need for comprehensive care.