Following the successful outcomes of the theoretical and hands-on Newborn Health Training Program conducted by the Turkish Neonatal Society in Vientiane and Saravan in February 2026, and upon the invitation of the Ministry of Health of Lao PDR, a follow-up working visit was carried out from 19–26 July 2026 with the support of the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA).

Representing the Turkish Neonatal Society, Prof. Dr. Ömer Erdeve, Prof. Dr. Özge Altun, and Prof. Dr. İstemi Han Çelik held meetings with the Ministry of Health of Lao PDR, UNICEF, UNFPA, and other project partners in the capital, Vientiane. The delegation also visited healthcare facilities in Bolikhamxay and Khammouane provinces to assess maternal and newborn health services on site and to initiate discussions for the establishment of a pilot center for newborn health.

Based on the field assessments and technical consultations, the country's priority needs in maternal and newborn health were jointly identified and evaluated.

During the visit, the main objectives and implementation roadmap of the three-year collaboration program, led by Prof. Dr. Esin Koç, were established.

We sincerely thank TİKA, our project partners—the Ministry of Health of Lao PDR, UNICEF, and UNFPA—as well as H.E. Ms. Oya Yazar, Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to Vientiane, and the Embassy staff for their invaluable support, hospitality, and close collaboration throughout the visit.

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