22 September 2025, Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan

The International Science and Technology Center (ISTC) continued to strengthen its cooperation with the Kyrgyz Republic through a high-level meeting held on 22 September 2025 between Ms. Karina Anguelieva, ISTC Executive Director, and Mr. Taalaibek Dalbaev, Director of the Department of State Regulation in the Sphere of Environmental Protection and Ecological Safety under the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision of the Kyrgyz Republic. Mr. Dalbaev also serves as the National Focal Point of Kyrgyzstan within the EU CBRN Centers of Excellence (CoE) Initiative.

The discussions centered on the successful implementation of the EU CBRN CoE Project 87 “Preparedness and Response for Mass Gatherings and Other Health Threats in Central Asia – PRECA.” This flagship project, funded by the European Commission and implemented by ISTC from 2021 to 2025, was carried out across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.

The project’s mission was to strengthen health security in Central Asia by improving preparedness and response to risks associated with mass gatherings. Its scope included enhancing food and water safety, establishing Poisons Information Centers to better manage chemical incidents, and reinforcing public health Command, Control, and Communication (C3) systems.

Ms. Anguelieva expressed her appreciation for Kyrgyzstan’s strong engagement and active participation in the project. As a direct outcome, 186 professionals from the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ecology and Technical Supervision, the Ministry of Health, and the Ministry of Emergency Situations benefited from specialized training and capacity building. Kyrgyzstan also became part of a broader international professional network, strengthening regional cooperation and knowledge exchange.

In addition, Kyrgyz institutions received vital equipment and tools to improve preparedness and response capabilities. During the meeting, Mr. Dalbaev showcased the equipment and conveyed his gratitude to ISTC for its support and partnership.

Beyond reviewing the PRECA project, the parties discussed ongoing and future areas of collaboration between ISTC and Kyrgyzstan. Both sides emphasized the importance of investing in the training and career development of highly specialized staff and experts as a long-term investment and safeguard for quality implementation of policies and regulations. Continuous support through training, skills enhancement, and motivation is essential to attract and retain talented professionals in the field of CBRN risk mitigation. By fostering a culture of ongoing professional growth, the sector can ensure it remains resilient and prepared to address evolving challenges.