Royal Medical Services Signs Strategic Healthcare MoU with Japan

The Royal Medical Services of the Bahrain Defence Force (BDF) has signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Shonan Kamakura General Hospital, a leading Japanese medical institution, marking a major milestone in international healthcare cooperation that will benefit patients and medical professionals in both countries.

The agreement was signed during the official visit to Japan by Brig. Gen. Dr. Shaikh Fahad bin Khalifa bin Salman Al Khalifa, Commander of the Royal Medical Services and Chairman of the Supreme Committee for Overseas Treatment. The ceremony was attended by His Excellency Ahmed Al‑Dossary, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to Japan, highlighting the strong diplomatic foundation of this partnership.

Shonan Kamakura General Hospital is one of Japan’s most advanced and internationally recognised healthcare institutions, known for its patient‑focused care and cutting‑edge medical services. The hospital was honoured as “Hospital of the Year - Japan” at the prestigious Healthcare Asia Awards 2025, recognising excellence in medical innovation, care quality, and technology adoption. In addition, it became the first Japanese hospital to receive the THE BIZZ Award from the World Confederation of Businesses, reflecting global recognition of its leadership and service quality.

Established in 1988 and located in Kamakura, Japan, Shonan Kamakura General Hospital operates numerous departments and state‑of‑the‑art facilities, including advanced emergency care, oncology services, cardiac and neurological treatment, and regenerative medicine programs. It has earned continuous accreditation from international quality institutions and certification systems designed to support medical services for patients from abroad.

The MoU creates a framework for cooperation that goes beyond formal exchange. It supports coordination of complex medical cases to deliver better patient outcomes, specialist training programs to elevate competencies among Bahraini healthcare workers, and long‑term scientific collaboration to advance medical research and innovation. The agreement also opens avenues for joint medical conferences and professional development events, strengthening ties between Japanese and Bahraini professionals.

Brig. Gen. Dr. Shaikh Fahad described the agreement as a “pivotal moment” in expanding Bahrain’s international healthcare engagement, offering opportunities for knowledge transfer and elevated treatment coordination. Ambassador Al‑Dossary emphasised that this partnership reflects the deep‑rooted friendship between Bahrain and Japan and reinforces healthcare as a key pillar of the strategic relationship.

Japan’s healthcare system is globally recognised for its advanced technology and high standards of medical care, supported by a universal health insurance model and one of the world’s longest life expectancies. By collaborating with Shonan Kamakura General Hospital, Bahrain enhances its access to world‑class medical expertise while reinforcing its commitment to delivering top‑tier healthcare services for citizens and residents alike.