On 20 December 2023, with the support of the National Coordinator of the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Safety and Security Agency of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan (CBRN SSA NAST) in cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Ministry of Health and Social Protection of the Population of the Republic of Tajikistan (MoHSPP RT), in particular with the State Institution "Republican Scientific Centre of Oncology" of the MoHSPP RT, the Sughd Regional Oncology Centre conducted a meeting with specialists who have completed long-term training in advanced oncology clinics of foreign countries in the field of medical physics, radiation therapy and diagnostics within the framework of the implementation of the IAEA national project TAD6007 - Strengthening the Center of Oncology Centers and TAD6008 – Improving Diagnostic Services.

During the visit, the Deputy Director -Matin Akhmedov, and Olimjon Azizov -Head of Public and International Relations Department of CBRN Safety and Security Agency of NAST, as Assistants of IAEA National Coordinator met with the Head of Regional Oncology Center -Bakhtiyor Orifov and with the specialists, who have undergone long-term training within the framework of the above mentioned projects.

Doctors who were trained in foreign countries are currently working as qualified specialists in the Sughd Oncology Centre. In addition, starting from November 1, 2023, one of the doctors from the diagnostic department of this centre is undergoing a year-long training at the Oncology Centre of the Republic of Azerbaijan on early diagnosis and prevention of oncological diseases. Also, to provide support and encouragement, the specialists of the centre participate in various regional and international online events to exchange experience and provide qualified services to the population.

It is important to add that within the framework of cooperation with the IAEA, modern equipment for radiation therapy planning was installed at the Sughd Regional Oncology Centre in 2019. Currently, these equipment are widely and successfully used in the treatment of malignant neoplasms. It should be noted that before the opening of the radiology department and the installation of the above-mentioned equipment, patients in Sughd region had to travel to the capital of the Republic or to foreign hospitals to receive this therapy.

It should be highlighted that large IAEA grants are aimed at the development and provision of quality services in cancer centres in the Republic of Tajikistan.

With the support of the National Coordinator of the Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Safety and Security Agency of the National Academy of Sciences of Tajikistan, the IAEA will continue its cooperation with the oncology centres of the MoHSP of Tajikistan, as part of the implementation of national projects on technical equipment and capacity building of qualified medical specialists for the upcoming years.