It was our great pleasure to welcome participants to the 17th ICORD Meeting, which took place from November 14-16, 2025, at the 9 Eylül Sabancı Cultural Center in Izmir, Turkey. This prestigious event brought together experts, researchers, healthcare professionals, patient advocates, and policymakers from around the world to discuss the importance of rare diseases and strengthen international collaboration in this critical field.
As a global network dedicated to improving the lives of those affected by rare diseases, ICORD (International Collaboration on Rare Diseases & Orphan Drugs) fosters international cooperation by bringing together stakeholders to share knowledge, promote research, and advocate for better policies. This meeting served as a vital platform to exchange ideas, discuss innovative solutions, and advance global efforts in rare disease diagnosis, treatment, and care.
Izmir, known as the Pearl of the Aegean, offered a truly inspiring setting for this important gathering. With its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and dynamic culture, the city provided an ideal environment for meaningful discussions and collaborations. From the ancient ruins of Ephesus to the vibrant streets of Alsancak, and from the historic Kemeraltı Bazaar to the breathtaking Aegean coastline, Izmir offered a unique blend of tradition and modernity that participants had the opportunity to experience.
We were delighted to host such an engaging and productive meeting, where global community members worked together to advance the fight against rare diseases through international collaboration and innovation.