On behalf of the Executive Board, I would like to wish you and your families a happy, healthy, safe, and productive New Year.

These past twelve months have been exciting for the WABIP. In 2015 we accomplished much, and with your help and support, a bright future lies ahead for our rapidly growing international organization. Twelve new regions and countries have joined our ranks, including among others Colombia, Bolivia, Ecuador, Japan, South Africa, Israel, Iran, the United Emirates, Sudan, Serbia, Slovenia, and Moldavia. We now represent the interests of 6,000 members from around the world!

We are completing the framework for the new WABIP Academy with its image, literature, and webcast library. Work has begun on the WABIP Flexible Bronchoscopy Practice Recommendations, and the Stent Taskforce is completing its evidence-based clinical recommendations paper. Our WABIP Newsletter has increased in scope and importance with ever more advertising potential and a recently completed survey of reader opinions. Our educational programs continue to thrive, as numerous pulmonary societies emulate our Fundamentals of Bronchoscopy programs and Train the Trainer courses.

In 2016, WABIP in partnership with regional societies is already committed to programs in Brazil, Peru, Chile, Hungary, Turkey, and Eastern Europe. And all the while, we are busy preparing for the May 2016 World Congress in Florence (make your reservations now!) where new congress templates, lecture venues, and expert speakers will assure an original and interesting scientific program. Thanks to your active involvement, a record number of abstracts are already being scheduled for presentation!

These are just a few of our ongoing achievements, and we look forward to many more in 2016.

Thank you all for your support, confidence and enthusiasm. Here's to celebrating the New Year. May 2016 bring you, your families, and the thousands of patients you serve the best of happiness, health, and good fortune!



Henri Colt, MD, FCCP
WABIP Chair