A BD3.2 million ($8.48 million) contract to supply state-of-the-art radiology equipment to the King Hamad University Hospital (KHUH) has been signed.

The agreement will result in the first positron emission tomography (PET) scan for oncology patients to be introduced in the country among other facilities.

It was signed by Minister of State for Defence Shaikh Mohammed bin Abdulla Al Khalifa and Intercol director Abdul Rahman Ali Al Wazzan.

'This is the first contract we have signed, but plan to sign several more in the next two months to fully equip the hospital,' said KHUH Commander Brigadier Dr Shaikh Salman bin Ateyatala Al Khalifa.

He was speaking at a Press conference held at the Gulf Hotel's Gulf International Convention Centre after the signing ceremony.

'Not only does this first contract make the hospital's radiology department one of the best in the region, it will also enable oncology patients to stay in Bahrain for treatment of various types of cancers,' said Dr Shaikh Salman.

The equipment, manufactured by American company General Electric (GE), is being supplied by Intercol.

'This contract is a major breakthrough for the partnership between several organisations that will contribute to the excellence of care and health services in Bahrain,' said Dr Shaikh Salman.

Shaikh Mohammed said the deal would add value to the hospital.

'The equipment will be completely installed by July and more will be installed soon,' he said.

Shaikh Mohammed said the hospital aimed to build strategic partnerships with several world-class suppliers to give the best services to people in Bahrain.

'We will have several specialities that will be a first for the country and, over a period of time, we shall make this hospital one of the best in the region,' he said.

Al Wazzan said Intercol was very happy with its contribution.

'We will strive to give the best possible equipment for the benefit of the country,' he said.

'We have been in this business for a long time to realise what the requirements of the people are.'

GE Middle East and Pakistan general manager Aziz Koleilat was also present at the ceremony.-TradeArabia News Service