IOFS and WOAH Discuss Priorities for Regional Animal Health Cooperation
Representatives of the Islamic Organization for Food Security and the World Organisation for Animal Health met in Astana to strengthen veterinary cooperation.
On July 15, 2026, in Astana, the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) held a working meeting with the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) Sub-Regional Representation for Central Asia. The primary objective of the meeting was to review ongoing cooperation efforts and establish priorities for future joint initiatives in the veterinary sector.
The meeting was attended by Dr. Memduh Unal, Director of the Programmes Department at IOFS, Mr. Bakdaulet Yerkhanov, IOFS Programme Manager, and Dr. Mereke Taitubayev, the WOAH Sub-Regional Representative for Central Asia. The discussion was centered on the proposed Central Asia Aquaculture Health Initiative, which aims to improve standards through an introductory webinar and a subsequent regional training program.
WOAH confirmed its commitment to supporting this initiative and proposed expanding its geographical scope to increase its impact. The participants emphasized the critical importance of strengthening coordination between veterinary authorities across Central Asia through practical regional activities, which is expected to enhance the effectiveness of animal disease surveillance and management.
Furthermore, the parties explored opportunities for providing technical assistance to Member States regarding priority animal diseases. The eradication of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) was identified as a potential platform for broader regional collaboration, reflecting a shared commitment to regional food security and agricultural health standards.
In addition, IOFS and the WOAH Sub-Regional Representation exchanged perspectives on strengthening links between Central Asia and the Middle East in the fields of animal health, livestock trade, and aquaculture. It was noted that a dedicated regional dialogue addressing these issues could be incorporated into the workplan for 2027 to ensure continued progress and integration of efforts.