U.S. Embassy Manila Deputy Chief of Mission Brian L. Goldbeck speaks to ASEAN Regional Forum representatives from 18 nations about the importance of sharing best practices, and increasing the flow of information between different government organizations to ensure the region is ready to combat biological and disease-borne threats.  Mr. Goldbeck provided opening remarks at the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Regional Forum on Bio-preparedness and Disaster Response Workshop August 26, 2014, at the Intercontinental Hotel, Makati City.

 The workshop’s objectives are for each country to devise national guidelines on bio-preparedness, develop concrete and practical follow-on actions, design a roadmap for multilateral cooperation, and enhance communication and coordination among foreign affairs, public and veterinary health, civilian law enforcement and military sectors.