A scientific–educational conference in laboratory medicine — “International Cooperation for the Development of Laboratory Medicine” — was organized jointly by Tbilisi State Medical University and the Association for Laboratory Medicine Management and Development (MDLM). The conference was dedicated to the visit of Professor Thomas Zima, President of the European Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (EFLM), member of the Czech Medical Academy, and Professor at Charles University in Prague.

The aim of the conference was to discuss modern challenges and future development perspectives in laboratory medicine, to share international experience, and to strengthen academic and scientific cooperation.

The event was officially opened by Professor Irakli Natroshvili, Rector of Tbilisi State Medical University, who emphasized the importance of international cooperation in the development of medical education and laboratory medicine.

The participants were also addressed by Professor Nino Gogokhia, Head of the Department of Laboratory Medicine of TSMU, Head of the Laboratory of the First University Clinic and Secretary General of the MDLM Association. Professor Nino Gogokhia spoke about current challenges in the development of the field and the importance of professional education.

The keynote speaker, EFLM President Professor Thomas Zima delivered several presentations covering modern trends in laboratory medicine development, the educational importance of the field and the necessity of training based on international practice. He also discussed traditional and modern biomarkers, the role of tumor markers in personalized medicine, laboratory quality management systems and the modern challenges of implementing the ISO 15189:2022 standard.

Within the framework of the conference, a presentation was also delivered by PhD Ronaldo Paolucci, Head of Clinical and Scientific Affairs at the company DiaSorin. His presentation focused on the clinical significance of fecal calprotectin and elastase-1 in improving the diagnosis and management of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (PEI).

The conference concluded with a panel discussion, which provided participants with the opportunity to discuss current challenges in laboratory medicine, the implementation of international standards and future development perspectives with leading experts in the field.

As part of Professor Thomas Zima’s visit, a working meeting was held with Professor Irakli Natroshvili, Rector of Tbilisi State Medical University, Associate Professor Tinatin Kilasonia, Head of the International Cooperation Division of the International Relations Department and Associate Professor Irina Kapetivadze, Head of the Rector’s Office. The meeting focused on exploring opportunities for strengthening cooperation between Charles University in Prague and Tbilisi State Medical University. Discussions included the development of international educational programs and the promotion of professional capacity building.