Iran's president says his country must attract patients from areas farther than the region considering its recent medical advancements.

Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, addressing a meeting between health ministry officials and chancellors of universities of medical sciences, said, “At the moment Iran has become a regional medical hub. However, given the country's great potential and talent in the field, we must try to turn it into a medical center for areas beyond the region.”

The Iranian president referred to the fair distribution of health and medical services throughout the country and the domestic production of 96 percent of the country's drug requirements as advancements made in the health sector during his term in office.

He also commented on the work that has been done in the field of medical research, saying that it was especially valuable considering that 45 percent of the findings resulting from such research is being put to practical use.

MJ/GM