Ayush Ministry to Host ASEAN Countries Conference on Traditional Medicines on July 20

The Ministry of Ayush, with support from the Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Mission to ASEAN, and the ASEAN Secretariat, is all set to organize the Conference on Traditional Medicines for ASEAN Countries on July 20, 2023.

The primary objective of the Conference on traditional medicine is to enhance collaboration and knowledge sharing between India and ASEAN countries in the field of traditional medicine. The event aims to provide a platform for the exchange of best practices and the development of a roadmap for future cooperation.

During a media briefing today, Union Minister for Ayush, Sarbananda Sonowal, expressed the historical and cultural connections that unite India and ASEAN nations. He emphasized that the relationship between India and ASEAN is established on a solid basis of shared geographical, historical, and civilizational ties that date back over two millennia.

Sonowal also underscored the importance of the conference, mentioning that the India ASEAN Conference on Traditional Medicine, which is being held after nearly a decade, signifies a significant advancement in enhancing cooperation between India and ASEAN. The Minister also shared the achievements of the Ministry of Ayush, noting its substantial growth since it was established as an independent ministry in 2014.

He mentioned the ministry's collaboration with prestigious international organizations and national institutions to conduct high-quality research on Ayush systems. This research encompasses non-communicable diseases such as diabetes mellitus, cancer, mental health, and infectious diseases like Covid-19. The conference will provide a platform to exchange research outcomes and experiences between the Ministry of Ayush and ASEAN countries.

Moreover, the conference aims to facilitate discussions on recent developments in the regulatory frameworks of ASEAN member states to promote traditional medicine.

The Ministry of Ayush has already established robust international cooperation in Ayush, resulting in increased exports of Ayush products and services. Several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) have been signed on cooperation in the field of traditional medicines, the establishment of Ayush chairs in foreign universities and institutes, and collaborative research at various levels. These efforts have not only garnered recognition for Ayush in ASEAN countries but also in other nations.

The one-day conference, to be held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi, will host 75 participants, including international delegates from eight ASEAN countries, with two additional international delegates joining virtually. The event promises to foster engaging discussions and idea sharing on traditional medicines.