Syrian physician Wael al-Halqi served as Prime Minister from 2012 to 2016, following a tenure as the Minister of Health for the Syrian Arab Republic. His political career unfolded during a period of intense conflict, leading to his appointment by President Bashar al-Assad after the defection of his predecessor, Riyad Farid Hijab, to the political opposition.
Early Career and Education
Born in 1964 in Jasim, Daraa Governorate, al-Halqi is a Sunni Muslim. He pursued medical studies at Damascus University, where he earned his degree in medicine in 1987. He further specialized by completing a master's degree in gynecology and obstetrics at the same institution in 1991. Following his clinical training, he managed primary health care services in his hometown of Jasim between 1997 and 2000.
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Al-Halqi transitioned into administrative and political roles within the Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party, serving as the secretary of the Daraa branch from 2000 to 2004. He later acted as the director of health in Daraa. By 2010, his professional standing grew as he was named the head of the national doctors' syndicate. In 2011, he entered the central government as the Minister of Health.
Premiership and Security Challenges
Appointed Prime Minister on 9 August 2012, al-Halqi oversaw the Syrian government during years of civil unrest. His administration focused heavily on military and internal security strategies, earning him the title of the Chief of Fighting Terrorism Government. On 29 April 2013, he survived an assassination attempt involving a car bomb in the Mezzeh district of Damascus, which resulted in six fatalities.
Fast facts
- Born: 1964, Jasim, Syria
- Education: Damascus University
- Profession: Physician, gynecologist, politician
- Prime Minister of Syria: 2012-2016
- Minister of Health: 2011-2012
- Religion: Sunni Islam
- Political Party: Arab Socialist Ba'ath Party
- Children: Four
Questions readers ask
What was Wael al-Halqi's medical specialty?
He is a qualified physician with a master's degree in gynecology and obstetrics.
Why did he become Prime Minister in 2012?
He was appointed by President Bashar al-Assad after his predecessor, Riyad Farid Hijab, defected to the Syrian opposition.
Achievements
- Prime Minister of Syria (2012–2016)
- Minister of Health of the Syrian Arab Republic (2011–2012)
- Educated at Damascus University
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