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Dear
Colleagues,
First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude on behalf
of the ISBT VIII European Congress for the confidence expressed
towards our organization. In the past four weeks which coincided
with the acute phase of the military conflict in Iraq,
registrations have doubled and figures for delegates and
presentations have reached the levels of expectations following
the ISBT Congress of last year. This, I believe, is an indication
that the international community of transfusion medicine is a
highly committed and sensitive body with a potential for
mobilization in times of real service.
In
the preliminary Scientific Programme that we had released on this
web-page, you will see that one of our main topics is: Transfusion
medicine in natural and man-made disasters. Misfortunately, this
topic will be discussed with a vivid memory of the human tragedy
that unfolded in front of our own eyes.
A prime obligation of blood services worldwide is to stand
by events that create a demand on blood products, and individuals
alike share this responsibility. The ISBT has proven itself to be
of scientific and practical
value for the good day and the bad day, and now it for her members
to put together every resource and experience available to them
for a more productive and prosperous future. This is the
significance of the Istanbul Congress, and I am confident that you
will not miss the opportunity to contribute. The Organizers also
see it as their duty to offer yourselves refreshing and enjoyable
days in a year of troubles for our globe.
I
look forward to meeting you all personally in Istanbul on 5-9 July
2003.
With
our kindest regards,
Prof.
Mahmut Bayik
President
VIII European Congress of the ISBT |