New PhRMAG head of ethics appointed

In his new role, Ibrahim Aql will occupy an executive position on the board of PhRMAG, with responsibility for extending the association's activities around education and ethical conduct, an important aspect of its work in representing international pharmaceutical companies in the region.

PhRMAG's mandate is to reinforce best practice in the region and represent the pharmaceutical industry in discussions with stakeholder groups. Last month, it released a new code of conduct for the marketing practices of pharmaceuticals, which reinforced the strong regulatory framework for the way that information on products is provided.

'I am delighted to accept the position of Head of the Ethics Review Board at PhRMAG. The Association does essential work in ensuring that the region's pharmaceutical companies operate according to the highest possible standards, and also provides a valuable means of communication between the industry, the medical community and patients,' said Aql.

'The core responsibility of healthcare companies is to improve and prolong human life, and we all need to ensure that our activities support a collective reputation for reliability and honesty, so that we can operate in a transparent environment based upon trust. I hope to help all members of the Association uphold these values in my new role,' commented Aql.

Aql's appointment to chair the Association's activities in the sometimes controversial field of pharmaceutical ethics demonstrates its commitment to offering a leadership role within the industry. One of the most experienced figures within the region's pharmaceutical sector; Aql has worked with PhRMAG for the last 4 years, and been a strong supporter of its work in the region.

PhRMAG was established in October 1998 by 21 co-founders to promote the importance of new medicines through contact with doctors, patients and officials. Its focus is the discussion of intellectual property rights, regulation and ethics in the pharmaceutical industry.