Global Bleeding Disorders Community Gathered in Istanbul
The 28. World Hemophilia Congress was held between May 31 to June 06 in Istanbul,
attracting over 4,300 leading healthcare professionals, people with Hemophilia,
their families and delegates from over 115 countries. 27 International Exhibitors
have exhibited during the Exhibition of the Congress. It is the largest WFH congress
in terms of both number of delegates and number of countries represented.
Istanbul was chosen as the location for the biennial congress four years ago, when
Hemophilia Society of Turkey and the Istanbul Convention & Visitors Bureau, successfully
won the bid to host the conference. Within the bidding process of 2008 World Congress,
ICVB presented Istanbul during the 2004 Bangkok Congress together with Prof. Dr.
Bulent Zülfikar, the President of Hemophilia Society of Turkey.
“Today is a historical day, not just for the people with Hemophilia living in Istanbul
but for those living all over the world… for hope, for understanding, and for achieving
Treatment for All,” said Congress President Prof. Dr. Bulent Zulfikar at the opening
ceremony. During the Opening Ceremony, Turkish Various Cultures Ensemble, “SUDE”
formed of 65 artists and musicians performed an unforgettable performance.
The meetings featured sessions on the medical advances, as well as capacity building
for patient organizations, lab diagnosis and testing accuracy, psychosocial and
quality of life issues, and dental care, among others.
Guests also found many opportunities to enjoy the beauty and history of Istanbul
and the warmth of the Turkish people.
The Traditional Cultural Event was held on June 03, Tuesday evening. Event started
from ICEC to outing for all to Topkapi Palace, the home of generations of Ottoman
Sultans, followed by a sumptuous buffet dinner overlooking the Blue Mosque and Hagia
Sofia. Over 3000 guests enjoyed the Turkish foods and had memorable time on historical
atmosphere. It was the first time ever that an event at this scale been organized
in this unique venue and atmosphere.
Farewell Dinner also held on the last day of the Congress as a memorable event,
at the Gardens and Upper floor of Istanbul Hilton Convention Center.
Tour Select is proud to be the selected DMC and co-PCO for this biggest Congress
of 2008 in Istanbul. The services given by Tour Select included, housing for over
2100 rooms in 31 different Hotels, Organization of Social Events, coordination of
F&B and A/V requests at ICEC and also at Hilton Convention Center, Shuttle service
through out the Congress, providing part-time personnel, organization of daily and
pre-post Congress Tours, and spouse programs.
Photos from organization
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