On March 19, 2026, a meeting was held at the Ministry of Health of the Kyrgyz Republic, attended by Health Minister Damir Osmonov and a delegation from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), led by Country Director Zheng Wu. The purpose of the event was to discuss the current state of ADB projects in the country, particularly those related to healthcare.
During the dialogue, the focus was on the implementation of the project "Strengthening Regional Health Security." This project includes the modernization of laboratory services and improving the healthcare system's readiness for various threats. Participants discussed the progress of construction work within the laboratory network, the supply of necessary equipment, as well as the implementation of a laboratory information management system and other programs. Renovation work continues in Bishkek, as well as in the Chui and Osh regions. Out of 11 laboratory facilities, 6 have already been completed, work on one facility is nearing completion, and tender procedures for 4 facilities are just beginning, with key contracts for the facilities in Bishkek already signed. All efforts are aimed at creating modern laboratory conditions that meet high standards of quality and biosafety.
Contracts for the supply of equipment, including hematological, biochemical, immunochemical, and microbiological, have already been signed. Currently, an evaluation of several packages, including general laboratory and visualization equipment, is underway. Once the supplies are completed, the laboratories will be equipped with the latest technologies, ensuring higher accuracy and quality of diagnostics. Additionally, the project includes the implementation of a Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and the improvement of the Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) system, which is essential for the sustainable development of laboratory services.
During the meeting, the challenges arising in the project implementation process were also discussed. These include issues related to procurement, adherence to construction timelines, and the need for coordination among all participants.
The meeting participants also considered further steps for project development, including guarantees of sustainability for the achieved results, strengthening the institutions of laboratory services, and expanding the functional capabilities of the new infrastructure in accordance with international standards, such as ISO 15189.
Furthermore, the implementation of the SEFF project was discussed, which includes the preparation of a new investment project for the modernization and development of healthcare infrastructure. The parties exchanged views on important areas such as the construction of new hospitals, equipping them with modern equipment, and improving energy efficiency.
At the end of the meeting, the parties confirmed their interest in further strengthening cooperation, emphasizing the need for quality and timely implementation of current projects, as well as the development of coordinated approaches to new initiatives aimed at improving the healthcare system of the Kyrgyz Republic.
