The 'OIE Global Network' of Reference Laboratories and Collaborating Centres is a key resource for the early and accurate diagnosis of animal disease pathogens and information pertaining to them. It provides expert support with the supply of science-based international reagents as well as the development of standards and guidelines for animal welfare and the food safety aspects of animal production, and recommendations for the prevention, detection and control of diseases such as zoonoses. The first international meeting of experts from 'OIE Reference Laboratories and Collaborating Centres' addressed the updating and setting of standards for methodologies in the fields of diagnostics, vaccine quality and biosecurity; the improvement of methods for internet networking, and the building of closer links between existing Reference Laboratories, Collaborating Centres and national and private veterinary laboratories. It demonstrated the need for OIE institutions to support developing and in-transition countries in facing current challenges and new threats linked to globalization and climate change through twinning, capacity building, and training programs.