Building national cardiology capacity through trilateral cooperation

From 24 to 28 November 2025, the Health and nutrition programme, in collaboration with the Shastin Third State Central Hospital in Mongolia, conducted a five-day advanced ECG and ischaemic heart disease training at Mittaphap Hospital in Vientiane Capital, Lao PDR. This activity was implemented under the framework of the Letter of Understanding on cardiology capacity building, reinforcing the triangular cooperation between Lao PDR, Mongolia and Luxembourg.

The event was honoured by the presence of the Director of the Department of Healthcare and Rehabilitation, Ministry of Health of Lao PDR, and Mr Robert DE WAHA, resident representative of the LuxDev Asia Office in Vientiane Capital. Their participation underscored the national priority of strengthening cardiology competencies to improve the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases — one of the leading health challenges in Lao PDR.

A total of 21 participants attended the training, including cardiologists from Mittaphap, Mahosot, and Setthathirath hospitals; internal medicine, intensive care unit, and emergency doctors from four provincial hospitals; and four newly graduated Lao medical doctors who completed their medical studies in Mongolia and are preparing to join the national health workforce.

The course was delivered by a team of specialists from the National Cardiovascular Centre of the Shastin Third State Central Hospital in Mongolia. The programme focused on advanced ECG interpretation, ischemic heart disease diagnosis and management, case-based learning, and practical clinical decision-making. These topics are particularly relevant as Lao PDR experiences a growing burden of non-communicable diseases, including heart disease.

This initiative highlights the strength and added value of Lao–Mongolia cooperation, bringing together expertise, experience and shared commitment to improving cardiology care. Supported by Luxembourg, this trilateral partnership contributes to sustainable capacity development, improved clinical practice, and better patient outcomes across the health system.

The Health and nutrition programme is financed by the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and jointly implemented by the Ministry of Health and LuxDev, the Luxembourg Development Cooperation Agency.