Guangxi will build the China-ASEAN key infectious disease laboratory and public health talent cultivation and exchange center, officials of the Disease Control and Prevention Center of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region announced on Oct 14.

This is expected to promote talent exchanges and sci-tech research cooperation between China and ASEAN countries, as well as boost efforts regarding the joint prevention and control of serious infectious diseases.

Guangxi is the only region in China connected with ASEAN both by land and sea. It also shares a similar climate with ASEAN countries, which results in a similar disease spectrum.

Guangxi has carried out monitoring on infectious diseases at border areas to control cross-boundary spread. As a result, it has launched cooperation efforts in disease prevention and control with countries like Vietnam, Thailand, as well as Cambodia.

The region has launched cooperation programs with Vietnam in the joint control of AIDS and tuberculosis. It has also operated emergency response drills for a dengue fever breakout in Pingxiang and Dongxing, two border cities, with Vietnam.

Officials of the Health Commission of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region noted that Guangxi will deepen cooperation with ASEAN countries in public health and health emergencies. It is also expected to set up a cooperation mechanism with ASEAN countries.