An early warning system for SARS outbreak is expected to top the
agenda of Tuesday's Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
special summit.
The leaders are also expected to discuss a joint plan to strengthen
the defense of their countries against severe acute respiratory
syndrome (SARS), a disease that has affected many countries in the
region.
The leaders will also review a series of measures to prevent the
spread of SARS, particularly the screening of passengers at entry
and exit points of all transport facilities including airports and
railway stations.
Thai foreign Minister Surakiat Sathirathai said he expected the
summit would help restore confidence both within and outside
ASEAN.
He
said information exchanges on SARS will also be established at the
end of the summit.
Preventive and screening measures were proposed at a meeting of
ASEAN health ministers in Kuala Lumpur last Saturday, and the ASEAN
leaders are expected to review these measures and add their
suggestions at the summit.
Security is heightened in and around the compound of Thailand's
Foreign Ministry, where the special ASEAN summit is to be held.
Infrared thermometers are installed to check body temperatures of
all participants and journalists.
(Xinhua News Agency April 29, 2003)