The message reads, in part:
“The threat of dangerous infectious diseases is a trans-border issue, and countering this threat undoubtedly calls for constructive international cooperation between sanitary and epidemiological services. A crucial task is to hold regular training sessions to improve practical cooperation in prompt detection and elimination of outbreaks that may cause a pandemic.
The drill held in Astrakhan with the participation of experts from 20 countries and representatives of a range of international organisations offers a unique opportunity to exchange expertise and coordinate emergency response efforts. Of course, the upcoming tests of mobile labs and specialised equipment used for various purposes have special importance.
I am confident that this large-scale event will be very helpful for all the participating sanitary and epidemiological agencies and will improve their readiness to protect the health and wellbeing of people.”