Kyrgyzstan on the way to the status of a “foot-and-mouth disease-free zone”: results of the meeting with WOAH

Veterinary Service Assessment

On August 11, an important meeting between WOAH representatives and Bakyt Torobaev, Minister of Water Resources, Agriculture and Processing Industry of Kyrgyzstan, took place in Yntymak-Ordo. During the discussion, the ministers and experts exchanged views on the current state of the veterinary system and its development prospects. Minister Torobaev noted the importance of the professionalism of WOAH experts and their contribution to the modernization of the national veterinary system, which is an important step towards international recognition of Kyrgyzstan as a safe producer of agricultural products.

Implemented measures

At present, a number of measures have already been taken in Kyrgyzstan to improve the epizootic situation. In particular, the following were:

1. Control measures have been strengthened: new standards for monitoring and control over the spread of diseases among animals have been introduced.
2. The legislative framework has been updated: the country's legislation has been adapted to international standards, which allows for a more effective fight against threats associated with infectious diseases of animals.
3. A monitoring system has been introduced: a system has been created that allows for the prompt exchange of epidemiological information between various institutions and regions.
4. Modernized laboratories: laboratories involved in disease diagnostics have been updated and equipped with modern equipment to improve the accuracy and speed of diagnostics.
5. Equipping border veterinary posts: border veterinary posts have received new equipment, which allows for more thorough inspections and the prevention of possible disease outbreaks.

Status of a “foot-and-mouth disease-free zone”

One of the main goals of the current reforms is for Kyrgyzstan to obtain the official status of a “foot-and-mouth disease-free zone”. This will allow the country to open new international markets for its agricultural products, which in turn can significantly increase the economic stability and income of farmers. To achieve this goal, it is planned to vaccinate animals against foot-and-mouth disease, which is a key element in the fight against this disease.

Prospects for Cooperation

The parties expressed confidence that further cooperation with WOAH will contribute not only to the improvement of veterinary services, but also to the overall development of agriculture in Kyrgyzstan. Successful implementation of reforms aimed at increasing epizootic resistance will create conditions for safer and more competitive production of agricultural products, which, in turn, will contribute to improving the well-being of the country's population.

Thus, Kyrgyzstan is taking confident steps towards improving its veterinary system and obtaining the status of a “foot-and-mouth disease-free zone”, which opens up new horizons for the development of agriculture and strengthening its position in the international arena.