RIYADH: There has been a rapid growth in the export of medical equipment and pharmaceutical products from Germany to Saudi Arabia, which in 2010 alone has reached SR2.4 billion, said Michael Morgenstern, Counsellor and Head of Economic Section, German Embassy in Riyadh. “Germany is exploring possibilities to invest in joint-venture projects in areas such as construction of hospitals, rehabilitation centers, high-tech procurement, training of doctors and in the health insurance market,” said Morgenstern. “Both countries are planning to further intensify their bilateral cooperation in medical field through specialized German delegations visiting the Kingdom,” Morgenstern said at the conclusion of Saudi Medicare 2011 in Riyadh, Wednesday. “Saudi Medicare is an ideal platform that has been serving the German companies to establish contacts and strengthen the cooperation with existing Saudi partners. Germany hopes that this international trade fair continues to grow so that we can fully improve trade and business cooperation on bilateral level,” said Morgenstern. Saudi Medicare 2011, the 14th International Healthcare, Hospital Supplies and Medical Equipment Show has witnessed business-to-business networking activities and displayed the latest products, technologies and innovations. More than 140 national, regional and international exhibitors from 17 countries took part in the event inaugurated by Dr. Abdullah Bin Abdulaziz Al-Rabeah, Minister of Health. National pavilions from countries such as Germany, Portugal, Pakistan, China, Korea and France were set up in the exhibition organized by Riyadh Exhibition Center (REC) at the sprawling Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center. The four-day event showcased the latest Diagnostic, Surgery, Lab, Optics and Ophthalmology Equipments; Disposable Products; Hospital Furniture; Implants; Dental Care Products; and Dentistry Supplies. Saudi Eye Care 2011 – the 7th International Eye Care and Optical Technology Exhibition; and Saudi Dentistry 2011 – the 10th International Dental Health Exhibition, also took place alongside the trade exhibition. The General Directorate of Hospital Affairs Administration of Radiology on the sideline of the show organized the second Radiology Technologists Conference.
