Antimicrobial resistance is now seen to be a global threat to effective healthcare delivery and patient care. Data from recent studies carried out within Europe have suggested that the situation is particularly acute in the Mediterranean nations. Over the past three years, the ARMed project has also studied this matter in countries in the south and east of the Mediterranean. The information gathered indicates that the challenges of antimicrobial resistance in these regions are even more pressing. It is therefore clear that the entire Mediterranean region requires particular attention.

This conference will provide a first-time opportunity for stakeholders in the Euro-Mediterranean zone. The academic programme will present up-to-date information from epidemiological studies on antimicrobial resistance undertaken in the regions. There will be state-of-the-art lectures delivered by experts in the field, most of whom hail from Mediterranean countries or have worked on projects conducted in the region. They therefore have first-hand knowledge of the problems and possible solutions. Discussion groups will allow delegates to share their experiences in addressing antimicrobial resistance and the important drivers for its control: effective antibiotic stewardship and infection control practices.

The meeting will also be enriched by the presence of speakers representing the European Commission, World Health Organisation, and the European Society of Clinical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, all key players in antimicrobial resistance initiatives in the region. The additional invitation of decision makers from the Euro-Mediterranean and EMRO countries should provide the right mix for reflective discussion and to enable possible solutions, relevant to the region, to be put forward for action.

We look forward to welcoming you to Malta in November 2006 and to join us in these fruitful interactions.

Michael Borg
Chair - Organising Committee
ARMed Project
Infection Control Unit
St. Luke’s Hospital
G’Mangia MSD08
MALTA