On March 19, 2026, a meeting took place at the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, where Minister Damir Osmonov met with a delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) led by Zheng Wu, the country director. The event was held as part of the analysis of the ADB project portfolio in the country, as reported by the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic.
During the discussion, the focus was on the implementation of the project "Strengthening Regional Health Security," which aims to modernize the laboratory service and improve the readiness of the healthcare system for potential threats. Issues related to the completion of construction work at laboratory network facilities, the supply of laboratory equipment, and the implementation of a laboratory management information system, as well as other program activities, were reviewed. Repair and construction work is ongoing in Bishkek, Chui, and Osh regions, with completion at six out of eleven facilities. One of the facilities is at the final stage, while tender procedures are being conducted for the remaining four, where work has not yet begun, and key contracts have been signed in Bishkek. All efforts are directed towards creating modern laboratory conditions in compliance with quality and biosafety standards.
Contracts for the supply of equipment for hematology, biochemistry, immunochemistry, and microbiology have already been signed. Currently, several packages are undergoing technical and financial evaluation, including general laboratory and visualization equipment. After the supplies are completed, the laboratories will be equipped with modern technologies, significantly enhancing the quality and accuracy of diagnostics. Work is also underway to implement a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and improve the Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) system, which will contribute to the sustainable development of the laboratory service.
During the meeting, emerging challenges related to the implementation of the project were also discussed, including procurement issues, timelines for construction work, and the need for coordination among all participants.
The participants of the meeting noted the future prospects of the project, including ensuring the sustainability of the achieved results, further strengthening the laboratory service, and expanding the functional capabilities of the created infrastructure in accordance with international standards such as ISO 15189.
The SEFF project, aimed at modernizing and developing the country's hospital infrastructure, was also discussed. The parties exchanged views on priority areas such as the construction of new hospitals, equipping them with modern medical equipment, and improving the energy efficiency of healthcare facilities.
As a result of the meeting, the participants confirmed their mutual interests in deepening cooperation, emphasizing the importance of the quality and timely implementation of current projects, as well as the necessity of joint work on new initiatives aimed at strengthening the healthcare system of the Kyrgyz Republic.
