Dr Keren Middelkoop, Union Vice President, delivered the closing speech at The Union World Conference on Lung Health 2024.
"Honoured guests, distinguished members of The Union and conference delegates, we thank you for your valuable contribution to The Union World Conference on Lung Health 2024.
"I hope you all agree that it has been a fantastic week here in Bali, Indonesia. It has been a privilege for The Union to host the conference in a country with such a strong commitment to ending tuberculosis and a community that has been so welcoming and such an incredibly engaged partner.
"The Union has the unique ability to bring the wider lung health community together, so that we can share, listen and collaborate. This year, over 4,000 delegates have taken part in a program of 362 sessions and 2,227 presentations.
"The excitement, enthusiasm and energy over the past few days has been clear to see and feel. Thank you all for that – it wouldn’t be possible without you!
"There are a large number of people we have to thank, who have made this conference an outstanding success.
"Firstly, I would like to extend a special thank you to the Indonesian Ministry of Health for their valuable partnership in delivering the Union Conference.
"I would also like to thank the 93 volunteers who have generously given their time to ensure that we can have the best possible experience, always having smiles on their faces.
"A huge thank you to all of the advocates and affected community for making their voices heard and connecting the science and innovation to those most affected by TB and lung disease, and keeping us grounded in why we do this work.
"With a special thanks to Stop TB Partnership Indonesia for co-hosting Community Connect.
"This conference is only possible through the close collaboration between teams of members and staff, led by Dr Carrie Tudor, the Chair of the Coordinating Committee of Scientific Activities, Nina Ruslami, the local co-chair, Zahedul Islam, Chair of the Union Community Advisory Panel, and David Jackson, Director of Conferences. Thank you for your tireless effort in bringing this conference together.
"I would also like to thank our sponsors and partners for their vital support.
"To close, I hope you have all being informed, challenged and inspired this week. And I call on us all to transform the knowledge we have gained and connections we have made, into a rejuvenated, united drive towards a healthier world for all, free of tuberculosis and lung disease.
"With that, I would like to thank you for your attendance and engagement at The Union World Conference on Lung Health 2024."