On 16 April 2026, a PCR laboratory at the Regional Health Inspectorate in Plovdiv, Bulgaria, was officially opened under ASEF’s Stockpile Project. Supported by the Government of Japan and implemented by WHO/Europe, the project aims to strengthen preparedness and response to COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. ASEF Executive Director Ambassador Beata STOCZYŃSKA joined the ceremony online, together with representatives of Bulgaria’s Ministry of Health, WHO in Bulgaria, the Embassy of Japan in Bulgaria, the Regional Health Inspectorate Plovdiv and local authorities.

The new laboratory is equipped with a high-performance real-time PCR system to support rapid and accurate detection of infectious diseases, including COVID-19. The project also covered laboratory renovations, key equipment, reagents and consumables, helping ensure that the facility can operate safely and consistently from the start.

In her remarks, Ambassador STOCZYŃSKA noted that the laboratory would strengthen surveillance, confirmatory testing and public health preparedness in Plovdiv. By investing in practical diagnostic capacity, the project contributes to Bulgaria’s wider efforts to build a more resilient health system capable of responding to future public health threats.