ID :
198389
Mon, 08/01/2011 - 07:07
Auther :
Shortlink :
https://oananews.org//node/198389
The shortlink copeid
FAO strengthens control mechanism for movement of animals
VIENTIANE,AUG.(KPL)- The Food Agriculture Organisation in collaboration with the Department of Livestock and Fisheries (DLF) organised a workshop in Savannaket province, on 19 and 20 July, aimed at contributing to strengthening the control mechanism for movement of animals and their products across national and international borders.
Its objective was to strengthen the roles and functions of international check-points around Lao PDR.
As Laos is a net importer of livestock (cattle, pigs, poultry) from adjoining countries, this course was necessary to reduce the risk of importing new and emerging infectious diseases with the livestock. The Lao government is keen to both increase livestock production to satisfy domestic needs and to promote future exports of livestock, livestock products and commodities. To support future exports, the government has applied to join the World Trade Organization (WTO). To achieve this status, it is necessary to meet internationally accepted standards for animal health and the certification of livestock to protect their health status in importing countries. Participants were made aware of the Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement and how it will affect their roles and functions once Lao PDR becomes a member of the WTO.
The workshop was attended by 22 participants out of whom 17 were staff from the International check- points of the borders of Lao PDR with Thailand and Vietnam. Representatives from the trade sector and technical officers responsible for check-points in Thailand were also present. Discussion on specific important issues of mutual concern was conducted for improvement of animal movements across the borders.
Current problems in meeting international standards were defined by participants and practical solutions identified.
It is expected that following the course, more efficient mechanisms and procedures will be introduced at international check-points to ensure that the inspection and processing of livestock, products and commodities entering, transiting and leaving Lao PDR will be faster and more “user-friendly”. This will facilitate international trade with neighboring countries, other members of the Great Mekong Subregion, ASEAN and further.
This workshop is part of the activities of FAO project Immediate assistance to strengthen Preparedness of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Lao PDR which is financially supported by the US Agency for International Development (USAID). Dr. Bounkhuang Khambounheuang, Director General of DLF opened the workshop. Dr. Chintana Chanthavisouk, Project National Director, Dr. Tri Naipospos, Project team leader and Dr. Ray Webb, FAO International expert of cross border control also attended the workshop.
Its objective was to strengthen the roles and functions of international check-points around Lao PDR.
As Laos is a net importer of livestock (cattle, pigs, poultry) from adjoining countries, this course was necessary to reduce the risk of importing new and emerging infectious diseases with the livestock. The Lao government is keen to both increase livestock production to satisfy domestic needs and to promote future exports of livestock, livestock products and commodities. To support future exports, the government has applied to join the World Trade Organization (WTO). To achieve this status, it is necessary to meet internationally accepted standards for animal health and the certification of livestock to protect their health status in importing countries. Participants were made aware of the Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) Agreement and how it will affect their roles and functions once Lao PDR becomes a member of the WTO.
The workshop was attended by 22 participants out of whom 17 were staff from the International check- points of the borders of Lao PDR with Thailand and Vietnam. Representatives from the trade sector and technical officers responsible for check-points in Thailand were also present. Discussion on specific important issues of mutual concern was conducted for improvement of animal movements across the borders.
Current problems in meeting international standards were defined by participants and practical solutions identified.
It is expected that following the course, more efficient mechanisms and procedures will be introduced at international check-points to ensure that the inspection and processing of livestock, products and commodities entering, transiting and leaving Lao PDR will be faster and more “user-friendly”. This will facilitate international trade with neighboring countries, other members of the Great Mekong Subregion, ASEAN and further.
This workshop is part of the activities of FAO project Immediate assistance to strengthen Preparedness of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Lao PDR which is financially supported by the US Agency for International Development (USAID). Dr. Bounkhuang Khambounheuang, Director General of DLF opened the workshop. Dr. Chintana Chanthavisouk, Project National Director, Dr. Tri Naipospos, Project team leader and Dr. Ray Webb, FAO International expert of cross border control also attended the workshop.
