30-06-2021 WHO Experts from WHO are providing training for Uzbekistan’s national and regional laboratories to improve their capacity and preparedness to detect COVID-19. From 5–9 July, national public health laboratories involved in SARS-CoV2 testing will be trained by international experts on laboratory sample management, biosafety and biosecurity. Well-functioning, sustainable laboratory services, operating according to international quality and safety principles, are essential to strengthening health systems and improving public health. Successful detection, characterization and tracking of disease transmission, which are essential for the prevention and control of public health interventions, require efficient laboratory systems. WHO/Europe aims to improve the quality of laboratory services in countries in eastern and south-eastern Europe through the Better Labs for Better Health (BLBH) initiative.