DHAKA, July 31 (v7n)- The sixth meeting of the SAARC Laboratory Directors' Forum (SLDF) was held in Kandy, Sri Lanka, on Friday, bringing together veterinary laboratory heads and technical experts from across South Asia to enhance regional cooperation in animal disease surveillance, diagnostics, and lab capacity building.
Organized by the SAARC Secretariat in partnership with Sri Lanka's Department of Animal Production and Health, the meeting marked the first SLDF gathering since the fifth session in Bangkok in 2018.
In his welcome address, Sri Lankan Department Director General Dr. B.S.S. Perera stressed the vital role of robust veterinary lab systems in protecting animal health, public health, and regional food security, while calling for deeper collaboration to tackle emerging and transboundary diseases.
Dr. Md. Younus Ali of the SAARC Agriculture Centre described the forum as a key platform for exchanging knowledge and setting regional priorities. SAARC Secretariat Director Tanvir Ahmad Torophder echoed that sentiment, highlighting the need for stronger lab networks and information-sharing to improve disease preparedness across member states.
Forum Chairman Dr. Barun Sharma of Nepal officially opened the session and urged greater coordination among national laboratories.
Delegates reviewed past recommendations, assessed progress since the fifth meeting, and discussed a draft framework for lab directors' capacity building and networking. They also examined country-specific updates on diagnostic capabilities, quality assurance, and bio-risk management, alongside regional priorities and collaboration opportunities with international partners such as WOAH and FAO.
The meeting concluded with a set of recommendations and a roadmap aimed at strengthening veterinary lab collaboration and enhancing South Asia's readiness against animal disease threats.
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