The University of Rome Tor Vergata had the honor of hosting the opening ceremony for the Joint Activity within the framework of the P100 project, titled "Strengthening of Frontline Biosafety and Biosecurity Measures in the SEE Region". This initiative is part of the CBRN Centre of Excellence - An Initiative of the European Union, aiming to enhance biosafety and biosecurity capacities in non-EU countries through the expertise and support of EU member states. The event, taking place from March 17 to March 21, 2025, was organized in collaboration with the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
Opening Ceremony – Distinguished Guests and Institutional Support
The Opening Ceremony was held at the Fleming Hall of the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery at the University of Rome Tor Vergata from 9:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. The event saw the participation of numerous distinguished institutional representatives, including:
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Prof. Nathan Levialdi Ghiron, Rector of the University of Rome Tor Vergata
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Prof. Stefano Marini, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Rome Tor Vergata
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Prof. Luigi Tonino Marsella, Director of the Department of Biomedicine and Prevention, University of Rome Tor Vergata
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Prof. Andrea Malizia, Director of the Master CBRNe, University of Rome Tor Vergata
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Col. Andrea Gloria, Representative of the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
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Dr. Peter Mutovkin, Executive Director of the Science and Technology Center in Ukraine and Coordinator of Project P100
The P100 project is an essential European initiative aimed at strengthening frontline biosafety and biosecurity measures in partner countries from the South-Eastern Europe Region (SEEE). The overall objective is to ensure the minimization of biohazard-induced health consequences, economic losses, and risks associated with breaches in safety and security protocols at state borders and customs clearance zones.
Lectures on International Biosafety and Biosecurity Risks
Following the opening remarks, participants attended two key lectures:
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Lt. Col. Andrea Gloria from the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperationdelivered an insightful session on biological risks at the international level, highlighting the importance of cross-border collaboration in mitigating CBRNe threats.
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Dr. Mariachiara Carestia, a researcher from the University of Rome Tor Vergata, provided an in-depth presentation on viruses, fungi, toxins, and bacteria, including identification and detection techniques.
These sessions provided an essential knowledge base for participants before engaging in the practical and observational components of the Joint Activity.
Afternoon Session – Visit to Policlinico Tor Vergata (PTV)
The afternoon session commenced at 2:30 p.m. with a welcome address by Prof. Andrea Magrini, Corporate Medical Director. The program included several presentations outlining the vital role of PTV in the network management of infectious disease transmission and its response during the COVID-19 emergency:
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“The Role of PTV in the Network Management of Infectious Disease Transmission” – Dr. Massimiliano Vitali, PTV Medical Directorate
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“The Experience of Policlinico Tor Vergata During the COVID-19 Emergency” – Prof. Loredana Sarmati,Director of the Infectious Diseases Unit, PTV
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“Morgue Management During the COVID-19 Emergency” – Prof. Michele Treglia, Section of Legal Medicine, Social Security, and Forensic Toxicology
Following these insightful presentations, participants embarked on an exclusive guided visit to key healthcare areas of PTV, where they had the opportunity to observe high-level medical facilities dedicated to diagnostics, nuclear medicine, radiotherapy, and laboratory medicine. The tour included:
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Imaging Diagnostics, Nuclear Medicine, and Radiotherapy Areas – Led by Prof. Francesco Garaci, Director of the Complex Operative Unit
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Department of Laboratory Medicine – Led by Prof. Sergio Bernardini, Director of the Complex Operative Unit
Participants were divided into three groups, each focusing on a designated area of expertise. The visit concluded at 5:00 p.m., marking the end of an enriching first day of activities.
Looking Ahead
The Joint Activity will continue over the next few days with a comprehensive agenda, including additional institutional visits and training sessions. This initiative represents a significant achievement for the University of Rome Tor Vergata, which was selected among numerous European institutions to host and coordinate this international training program alongside the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
With 56 experts from multiple countries participating, the event underscores the importance of global cooperation in strengthening biosafety and biosecurity capabilities and highlights Italy’s key role in providing expertise and training in the field of CBRNe protection.
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