Australia’s Delegate at the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE), Dr Mark Schipp, is chairing the 87th General Session of the World Assembly of National Delegates of the OIE in Paris.
Dr Schipp, who is the elected President of the OIE World Assembly and also Australia’s Chief Veterinary Officer, is the first Australian to chair the session for 30 years.
“The assembly is an opportunity to discuss the current animal health situation worldwide and methods to mitigate risks and threats,” Dr Schipp said.
“This includes adopting new intergovernmental standards for animal health and welfare. For example we expect a new chapter on disease prevention and control and another on measures to assess animal welfare to be adopted. An updated standard for rabies virus is also expected to be adopted.”
This year’s program includes sessions on how external factors (such as climate change, conflicts, socio-economics and trading patterns) will impact 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.
“It is a tremendous honour to chair the World Assembly of National Delegates of the OIE and contribute to the important animal health and trade matters that directly affect Australia,” Dr Schipp said.
“It is an opportunity to enhance Australia’s reputation as a leader in animal health and biosecurity.”
The assembly brings together around 1000 participants from all OIE Member Countries and international and regional partners. For more information visit http://oiegeneralsession.com/en/press/
