Distinguished members of the Regional Validation Committee, colleagues and partners – It is my great pleasure to welcome you to the 2025 Annual Meeting of the Regional Validation Committee for the Elimination of Mother-to-Child Transmission of HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis B.
Let me begin by extending our sincere gratitude to each of you, the members of the RVC, for your steadfast commitment and contributions over the years. Your expertise, your time, and your thoughtful engagement have been instrumental in advancing the Triple Elimination Initiative across the South-East Asia Region.
A warm welcome also to our newly appointed RVC members. We are delighted to have you join this distinguished group, and we look forward to the insights and perspectives you will bring to our collective efforts.
Since 2016, our region has celebrated significant milestones. Thailand, Sri Lanka and Maldives have achieved validation of EMTCT of HIV and syphilis.
In October, just several weeks ago, we marked a major achievement with Maldives attaining validation for Triple Elimination with the inclusion of the EMTCT of hepatitis B. This is not only a testament to national leadership and multisectoral collaboration, it is also a reflection of the rigorous and thoughtful guidance provided by this Committee.
Beyond these validated countries, we are seeing growing momentum across the region. Bhutan, India, Nepal and others are putting in significant effort toward EMTCT, navigating complex challenges around resources, systems and service delivery. Despite these uncertainties, they stand to gain immensely from the shared experience, technical guidance, and peer learning that this Committee facilitates.
Over the next three days, we have a rich agenda ahead. We will revisit foundational guidance, share country updates, engage with global partners and reflect on lessons learned.
As we review our progress and experience, we must also look forward. By identifying regional priorities for 2026 and beyond, and refining how the Committee can best contribute to future validation assessments, we can ensure that our validation processes remain rigorous, inclusive and responsive to country needs.
I encourage you to bring your full experience to these discussions, and to continue shaping the path forward with the same spirit of collaboration and excellence that defines this Committee.
On behalf of WHO South-East Asia, I thank you once again for your service, and I wish you a productive and inspiring meeting.
Thank you.