On February 5^th, 2025, the Pasteur Institute of Iran held its inaugural national conference on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), closely coinciding with World NTD Day. The conference aimed to address significant scientific advancements and the ongoing challenges in combatting these persistent infectious diseases that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations in tropical and subtropical regions. The World Health Organization has set an ambitious target to eliminate NTDs by 2030, and countries like Iran are actively engaged in this vital public health initiative.

The conference was inaugurated by Dr. Delaram Doroud, the Conference Chair and Director of Research, Technology, and Education at the Pasteur Institute of Iran. In her opening remarks, Dr. Doroud emphasized the essential role of research in driving the technological innovations necessary to tackle NTDs effectively. Apart from Leishmaniases, the conference covered a wide array of other NTDs, including Trachoma, Urinary Schistosomiasis, Fascioliasis, Leprosy, Rabies, Dengue Fever, and Chikungunya Fever. Experts at the conference highlighted the need for ongoing monitoring and coordinated efforts among stakeholders to ensure effective disease control strategies. A key highlight was a presentation by Dr. Fabiana Piovesan Alves, the NTD Leishmaniasis-Mycetoma Cluster Director at DNDi, who joined remotely to discuss innovative treatment strategies for managing NTDs. Her insights provided attendees with valuable perspectives on new approaches in disease management.

In her closing remarks, Professor Sima Rafati, the Scientific Organizer of the conference and a keynote speaker at the event, expressed optimism about the future of NTD research and control efforts in Iran. She stressed that ongoing conferences and comprehensive collaborations among responsible organizations, research institutes, and universities could significantly enhance the country's efforts toward the elimination and eradication of NTDs. Additionally, the event concluded with the celebration of Gender Equality in Science Day, recognizing several senior Iranian female scientists for their impactful contributions to public health. This recognition underscored the importance of diversity and inclusivity in the scientific community, particularly in addressing global health challenges.