The Egyptian Drug Authority (EDA) participated in the Second WHO Global Summit on Traditional Medicine, held in the Indian capital, New Delhi, under the theme: "Restoring Balance for People and Planet: Science and Practice for Well-being." This participation comes as part of the EDA’s active contribution as a member of the Summit's Steering Committee, featuring high-level participation from government leaders, scientists, and civil society representatives from around the world.

The summit was attended by Dr. Nesma El-Sayed, Manager of the General Administration for Registration of Herbal Products at the Central Administration of Pharmaceutical Products; Dr. Samah Mohamed Shaker El-Komay, Manager of the Regulatory Affairs Administration at the General Administration for Registration of Herbal Products; and Dr. Ahmed Said from the Administration of International Relations and Agreements, representing the Egyptian Ministry of Health and Population.

Dr. Nesma El-Sayed represented the Authority at the Steering Committee meeting, where the summit’s agenda was discussed. The meeting reviewed interactive and educational experiences in traditional medicine discovery, highlighted the balance between scientific and traditional knowledge, and emphasized the importance of international cooperation and knowledge exchange between countries and communities. Furthermore, discussions covered the coordination of policies and regulatory procedures to ensure the application of global best practices in traditional, complementary, and integrative medicine (TCIM), enhancing the quality and safety of traditional products and integrating them into national health systems while preserving heritage and traditional knowledge in accordance with the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025-2034.

Dr. Nesma El-Sayed also participated as a speaker in a panel session focused on the regulation of traditional and complementary medicine products. She emphasized the importance of science-based regulatory frameworks and the alignment of standards to protect public health and gain consumer trust. She presented the general frameworks for registering herbal products at the EDA to ensure quality, safety, and efficacy, including the implementation of integrated pre- and post-market surveillance and manufacturing according to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). This is supported by the continuous updating of the Egyptian Pharmacopoeia and the Egyptian Herbal Monograph, reflecting the Authority's advanced international standing (Maturity Level 3).

The closing day of the summit featured key outcomes and recommendations, primarily accelerating the implementation of the WHO Traditional Medicine Strategy 2025–2034, integrating evidence-based traditional medicine into national health systems, and ensuring equitable access and sustainability.

The WHO Traditional Medicine Global Library (TMGL) was also announced, serving as a comprehensive digital platform that bridges scientific and traditional knowledge, supports research and innovation, and ensures equitable access to information and the protection of intellectual property. The Egyptian Monograph has been included in this global library, reflecting the quality and credibility of Egyptian practices and enhancing Egypt's global presence. Additionally, calls were launched to establish a Global Alliance for Health Heritage Innovation (H2I).

This participation aligns with the Egyptian Drug Authority’s commitment to fostering sustainable international cooperation, exchanging scientific and regulatory expertise, and applying advanced strategies to support public health and innovation in traditional medicine. It aims to achieve a tangible positive impact at both national and international levels, reflecting Egypt's leading role in developing the pharmaceutical sector across the region.