The Minister of Health, Mr.Recep Akdağ Opened Our Vaccine Facility

The Opening Ceremony of our Vaccine Facility took place on December 4, 2010, with the participation of the Minister of Health, top level bureaucrats of the Ministry and senior executives of the Sanofi-Aventis Group.

After the official opening by the Minister and an initial tour, Executive Board Member Mr. Üstün Baharoğlu gave a speech thanking all attendees and employees and thanking Sanofi Pasteur for trusting in us with this Vaccine Project. (a translation of the full speech can be found below)

Speeches were also given by head of Sanofi Aventis Turkey; Mr. Olivier Guillaume, General Manager of Sanofi Pasteur; Mr. Philippe Sagot, Vice President for Middle Eastern and Gulf Countries of Sanofi Pasteur; Mr. Fikri Turkay, and the Vice Consul of France in Istanbul; Mr. Herve Margo.

Mr. Turkay emphasised the importance of the five valence vaccine in the battle against diphteria, acellular pertussis, tetanus, polio and hib. The Ministry of Health has included this vaccine in the national Immunisation Program back in 2007 and has stressed the need for the transfer of the filling to Turkey.

Mr. Guillaume mentioned the importance of such investments for Turkeys economic and scientific growth.

The Minister of Health drew attention to the fact that since October 15, 2010, one of the worlds most advanced vaccines is being produced, at least partially, in Turkey. He also expressed his belief that this is merely a first step in becoming an attractive centre for vaccine production and research.

The Minister of Health was then presented with a Certificate of Appreciation by Sanofi Pasteur.

Speech by Mr. Üstün Baharoğlu given at the opening ceremony of our Vaccine Facility:

"First of all, in the name of our Company and our employees, I would like to thank you all for honouring us with your presence.

A contract manufacturer for 25 years, Mefar has reached this level of liability and quality through the trust and valuable support of its' customers.

I want to thank once again the Ministry of Health for their supportive stance. This project will provide new employment and will move the Health Sector to a new level.

By trusting Mefar with the filling of this vaccine, Sanofi Pasteur has made a major contribution to the Health Sector in our country.

In our current facility, we are capable of producing a vast array of different vaccines. In time, we aim to be a leading high quality vaccine facility.

Dear guests, I want to finish my words by expressing my gratitude to all our employees for their devotion and awareness."

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