The Central Asia EP Summit – CardioRhythm was held from October 17-18, 2024, in Astana, Kazakhstan, at the Concert Hall of the National Military-Patriotic Center of the Armed Forces. Organized by the Ministry of Healthcare of Kazakhstan, the summit brought together leading experts in arrhythmology from Europe, the Americas, and Asia, as well as specialists from across Central Asia.

Academic Highlights and Knowledge Exchange



Professor Yan Yao, Director of the Heart Arrhythmia Center at Fuwai Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, participated as the only invited expert from China. During his presentation, he shared insights into the latest strategies for managing complex atrial fibrillation (AF) and introduced the Total 3D Electrophysiology (EP) Model, also known domestically as the Green EP Model, which he pioneered in 2011. His lecture sparked great interest among participants, leading to vibrant discussions on how the model’s low-radiation, high-precision approach can improve outcomes in arrhythmia treatments.



As part of the summit, Professor Yan also officiated the Central Asian launch of the TrueForce™ Contact-Force Sensing Ablation Catheter, developed by MicroPort EP（EverPace）. This cutting-edge catheter provides real-time contact force metrics, enhancing both the safety and precision of ablation procedures. Professor Yan demonstrated the catheter’s capabilities by performing a successful live case on a patient with a rare arrhythmia, underscoring its clinical value.



Recognition and Belt and Road Cooperation

During the summit, Professor Yan Yao was awarded Honorary Membership in the Kazakh Society of Arrhythmologists in recognition of his academic contributions and leadership in fostering international collaboration in arrhythmology. This accolade reflects his influence in advancing global healthcare innovation and collaboration.

The summit also underscored the deepening collaboration between China and Kazakhstan under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) framework. Chinese Ambassador Zhang Xiao highlighted the significance of leveraging geographical advantages to enhance cooperation in healthcare, technology, manufacturing, and other sectors.


The summit served as a platform to explore shared medical resources and innovation, exemplifying cross-border collaboration that benefits the region’s health systems and promotes peace and development.


Looking Forward

The Central Asia EP Summit – CardioRhythm not only facilitated international exchange on the latest advancements in arrhythmology but also laid the groundwork for deeper healthcare partnerships between China and Central Asian countries. Delegates expressed optimism about future collaborations and looked forward to reuniting at upcoming summits to explore new breakthroughs in electrophysiology.

In reflecting on this experience, Professor Yan Yao emphasized the importance of reviving the historical ties between China and Central Asia, regions once deeply connected through the Silk Road but separated in recent history. This summit, which marked his long-anticipated visit after pandemic delays, revealed the local demand for advanced knowledge and technology and highlighted the significance of mutual exchange and friendship.
Professor Yan also noted that MicroPort EP（EverPace）, an emerging supplier of electrophysiology products in Central Asia, is poised to play a pivotal role in expanding China's influence in the region. As key members of the BRI and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), strengthening academic exchanges and patient care remains a shared responsibility and mission for all stakeholders involved.

This summit demonstrated that China’s engagement with Central Asia extends beyond economic development, offering healthcare cooperation that brings tangible benefits to people along the Belt and Road, fostering regional peace and sustainable growth for the future.