Amsterdam, Netherlands, 5^th June 2007, The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) today announced that they had received an annual grant from Abbott Diagnostics to significantly expand their Visiting Lecturer Program. This program supports international cooperation in educational activities through the funding of lectureships on scientific, educational and managerial topics.

�We are delighted and very grateful to Abbott for their generous grant that will allow us to develop this program considerably. There is a real need for the continued communication of scientific and clinical advances and techniques in clinical chemistry and laboratory medicine, especially in developing countries. We intend to use this program as a platform to contribute to the creation of educational networks, bringing together activities in different regions� said Professor Jocelyn Hicks, President of IFCC. Jaime Contreras, vice president of Commercial Operations, Abbott Diagnostics, said �Abbott has always been passionate about assisting laboratories in continuous improvement. In funding this multi-year grant we look forward to enhanced communication between clinical laboratories in the many countries across the Federation. The International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, composed of 76 full member national societies of clinical chemistry representing over 30,000 clinical chemists, 38 Corporate members and 5 affiliate members, strives to enhance the scientific level and quality of diagnostics and therapy for patients throughout the world. Further information can be found at www.ifcc.org