UAE Foreign Minister, Blinken Discuss Two-way Ties and Ukraine

United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan attends a news conference in Moscow, Russia. (File photo: Reuters)
United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan attends a news conference in Moscow, Russia. (File photo: Reuters)
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UAE Foreign Minister, Blinken Discuss Two-way Ties and Ukraine

United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan attends a news conference in Moscow, Russia. (File photo: Reuters)
United Arab Emirates Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan attends a news conference in Moscow, Russia. (File photo: Reuters)

The foreign minister of the United Arab Emirates discussed developments in Ukraine and ways to strengthen two-way ties during a telephone call with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, the state news agency (WAM) said Wednesday.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Blinken discussed the importance of reaching a political settlement to the Ukrainian crisis, WAM said.

They also discussed the latest regional and global developments and exchanged views on them, the news agency added.



Saudi Arabia’s Health Sector Transformation Increases Life Expectancy to 78.8 Years

A view of Riyadh on Nov 15, 2024. (Reuters)
A view of Riyadh on Nov 15, 2024. (Reuters)
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Saudi Arabia’s Health Sector Transformation Increases Life Expectancy to 78.8 Years

A view of Riyadh on Nov 15, 2024. (Reuters)
A view of Riyadh on Nov 15, 2024. (Reuters)

The Health Sector Transformation Program has contributed to an increase in the average lifespan in Saudi Arabia, which rose to 78.8 years in 2024, up from 74 years in 2016.

According to the program, this progress is directly attributed to the implementation of comprehensive health policies, such as reducing harmful ingredients in food products—including hydrogenated oils and excessive salt—as well as enhancing early screening for chronic diseases such as diabetes, obesity, and cancer.

These initiatives are part of a broader focus on prevention and improving treatment options.

In addition, health authorities in Saudi Arabia have worked to boost the efficiency and quality of services for citizens, residents, and visitors by training healthcare professionals and upgrading diagnostic and treatment services—significantly improving public health indicators and overall quality of life.

This progress aligns with the strategic goal of the health transformation initiative, which aims to raise life expectancy in the Kingdom to 80 years by 2030.