To the distinguished colleagues and students of the Pasteur Institute of Iran, and to the esteemed family of the nation's health and medical community,

Greetings;

The 20^th of August marks the anniversary of a journey that began 106 years ago with the noble aim of serving the health of the people—a path that, over more than a century, has established the Pasteur Institute of Iran as one of the most vital pillars of scientific and public health endeavor in the country.

Throughout these years, the name of the Pasteur Institute of Iran has become indelibly linked with the control of communicable diseases, disease diagnostics, the production of vaccines and biological products, the surveillance of emerging and re-emerging infections, preparedness for health threats and pandemics, applied scientific research, the training of competent human resources, and the provision of specialized health services. From combating diseases such as smallpox, plague, cholera, malaria, tuberculosis, hepatitis, rabies, and COVID-19, to establishing reference laboratories, research networks, biobanks, and fostering international collaborations, and advancing the country's medical and pharmaceutical biotechnology ecosystem—this endowed institution, as a member of the international Pasteur Network, remains an inseparable part of the history of health and modern medical science in Iran.

Today, as the Pasteur Institute of Iran turns 106, we are more aware than ever of the true meaning of "service" and "responsibility," and of the paramount importance of "enhancing the health security of the people."

The past few months have been exceptionally difficult and unprecedented for the extended family of the Pasteur Institute of Iran. The damage inflicted by the war upon parts of the infrastructure and equipment of this historic institution's main building, though it impacted a significant portion of our service capacities, could not halt our resolve and determination to continue serving the people. A substantial part of our activities continued through the relentless, round-the-clock efforts of our colleagues, the strategic relocation of capacities, and the utilization of available resources. The process of reconstruction, though somewhat gradual due to financial constraints, has commenced with earnest commitment.

Today, we can proudly affirm that the true capital of the Pasteur Institute of Iran lies in the knowledge, experience, dedication, and integrity of the noble individuals who, even in the most trying circumstances, have not forgotten their duty to safeguard public health.

On this anniversary, I extend my sincerest gratitude to all my dear colleagues across our research, diagnostic, production, educational, support, and administrative departments, who, with a profound sense of responsibility and selflessness, have stood by the Pasteur Institute of Iran through this difficult period.

The 106^th anniversary of the Pasteur Institute of Iran is not merely an occasion to honor the past; it is also an opportunity to envision the future. We are steadfast in our belief that, following this challenging experience, the Pasteur Institute of Iran must continue to serve as a symbol of public trust in the nation's health system. With more modernized infrastructure, expanded capacities, and an even more prominent role, it shall persist as one of the cornerstones of the health system in the country and the region, continuing its illustrious path forward.

The Pasteur Institute of Iran, relying on its invaluable human capital, the support of authorities, and the cherished solidarity of the people and benefactors, will be rebuilt anew to ensure the continuity of service for generations to come.

I extend my congratulations on the 106^th anniversary of the founding of the Pasteur Institute of Iran to its extended family and to all those active in the fields of health, science, and research across the nation.

Respectfully,

 Ehsan Mostafavi, DVM, PhD
Director General of the Pasteur Institute of Iran