Australia’s delegate at the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), Mark Schipp has taken up his post as Chair of the World Assembly of National Delegates in Paris.
The first Australian to chair a session for 30 years, Dr Schipp said the Assembly was an opportunity to discuss the current animal health situation worldwide and consider methods to mitigate risks and threats.
“This includes adopting new intergovernmental standards for animal health and welfare,” Dr Schipp said.
“For example, we expect a new chapter on disease prevention and control and another on measures to assess animal welfare to be adopted,” he said.
“An updated standard for rabies virus is also expected to be adopted.”
He said this year’s program included sessions on how external factors such as climate change, conflicts, socio-economics and trading patterns, would impact on veterinary services.
“Participants will also discuss the global situation relating to African Swine Fever and antimicrobial resistance, and the importance of biosecurity for aquatic animals’ health systems for a sustainable aquaculture,” Dr Schipp said.
He said chairing the Assembly was an opportunity to enhance Australia’s reputation as a leader in animal health and biosecurity.
The Assembly brings together around 1,000 participants from all OIE member countries and international and regional partners.
