VIENTIANE: The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) reaffirmed its commitment to aligning with international and regional treaties and initiatives on biosafety and biosecurity.
The commitment was reiterated during the two-day third consultative meeting for the Development of ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Biosafety and Biosecurity, held in Vientiane province.
Speaking at the meeting, Director General of the Department of Communicable Diseases Control under the Lao Ministry of Health, Phonepadith Xangsayarath said the meeting provides a vital opportunity to discuss the finalization of the declaration.
He emphasized the importance of collaboration in advancing biosafety and biosecurity initiatives within ASEAN and highlighted that the discussions and decisions made during the meeting would demonstrate the region’s dedication to alignment with global and regional frameworks.
The meeting served as a pivotal step in strengthening ASEAN’s resolve to create a safer and more secure regional environment against biological threats.
The successful adoption of the declaration will signify a significant milestone in regional health security cooperation.
