The first edition of the “Outbreak Readiness and Preparedness in the Lancang Mekong Cooperation Region (LMCR)” scientific symposium was part of an alliance between several Instituts Pasteur, the Yunnan government and the Mérieux Foundation to develop a platform in the Yunnan province capable of conducting research for preparedness of emergent and re-emergent infectious diseases. The aim of this symposium was for scientists coming from multiple disciplines such as research scientists, clinicians, public health professionals, health workers and policy makers to share their work and views on how to best manage infectious diseases in South-East Asia, particularly in the Lancang Mekong Cooperation Region.  The view that Yunnan is the gateway to prevent and control the next major outbreak and the urgent need to strengthen its capabilities for this mission was unanimously shared by all participants.  This strong consensus has led participants to generate ideas and projects for research collaboration.

More than 50 international experts attended this event.  Thanks to the participation of Kunming Zoology Institute, CAS and Yunnan Health Commission, this meeting has gain critical support to advance the alliance for joint research facilities and program in Yunnan.