RIYADH: Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman donated blood on Thursday to initiate the annual national blood donation campaign.

This gesture, hailed as a generous act and an extension of the kingdom's humanitarian efforts, aims to raise awareness about the significance of voluntary donations, ensuring self-sufficiency in blood supplies and promoting safe and sustainable stocks for the population.According to officials, over 800,000 individuals participated as blood donors in 2024.

The crown prince and King Salman have been actively involved in various health-related initiatives recently, including receiving the COVID-19 vaccine and participating in the national organ-donation program, setting a precedent for public engagement in healthcare activities.The Ministry of Health commended Crown Prince Mohammed's donation, noting that it serves as an exemplary model for the nation.

The act emphasizes establishing blood donation as a national value and supports the voluntary work system within the health sector, ensuring the provision of safe blood supplies to meet the population's needs.Health Minister Fahad Al-Jalajel expressed gratitude to the crown prince for his blood donation and unwavering support for humanitarian efforts through this campaign.

He highlighted that it represents a firm commitment to fostering a culture of giving and community solidarity, increasing voluntary blood donations, and supporting the health sector as a whole.Dr. Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, advisor to the Royal Court and supervisor-general of the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center, stated that the donation exemplifies the highest form of humanitarian generosity and embodies a noble message of compassion and solidarity.

Each donation contributes significantly to saving lives, reflecting the kingdom's leadership's deep humanitarian values.The initiative is seen as an extension of the Saudi leadership's generosity and commitment to humanitarianism, encouraging citizens and residents alike to engage in blood donations as a vital humanitarian act.

Riyadh Governor Prince Faisal bin Bandar noted that this campaign reflects the crown prince's dedication to instilling the values of solidarity and giving within society.Prince Saud bin Naif bin Abdulaziz of the Eastern Province emphasized how the crown prince's donation sets an inspiring example, demonstrating direct interest in citizens' health and raising awareness about the importance of voluntary blood donations in saving lives.Sheikh Abdullatif bin Abdulaziz Al-Sheikh, Minister of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance, viewed this gesture as embodying the highest values of altruism and serving as an exemplary model of humanitarian work.

He encouraged all segments of society to participate in the annual campaign in accordance with religious teachings that emphasize saving a life as saving mankind entirely.Dr. Hisham bin Saad Al-Jadhey, CEO of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority, noted that this donation not only saves lives but also strengthens the relationship between citizens and the healthcare sector, making every individual a partner in creating an informed, sustainable healthcare system.

The campaign reflects the kingdom's generosity and commitment to humanitarian values, ensuring blood banks are adequately supplied to support hospitals and healthcare centers.