“Our participation reflects our shared commitment to advancing animal health, veterinary services, and the One Health approach in the Asia-Pacific region,” Deputy Minister of Agriculture Sudaryono said.
The One Health approach refers to collaborative efforts that recognize the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health to achieve sustainable outcomes for people, animals, and ecosystems.
Sudaryono noted that the conference is taking place amid global challenges ranging from transboundary animal diseases and zoonoses to the threat of antimicrobial resistance.
“These challenges remind us that animal, human, and environmental health are interconnected,” he emphasized.
He cited recent outbreaks such as foot-and-mouth disease, rabies, avian influenza, and African swine fever as examples of how quickly diseases spread, disrupting livelihoods, food security, and international trade.
“These events highlight the importance of early detection, rapid response, and strong veterinary services,” he said.
Sudaryono expressed hope that the conference will allow stakeholders to exchange best practices, share innovations, and strengthen collaboration to shape the future of animal health in the Asia-Pacific region.
“I hope this conference produces concrete recommendations and tangible steps to address urgent animal health challenges in Asia and the Pacific, particularly those related to transboundary animal diseases, zoonoses, and the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance,” he added.
He also thanked the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), strategic partners, and all delegates for their continued efforts to safeguard animal health.
“This is fundamental to food security, public health, and sustainable development,” he remarked.
Meanwhile, WOAH Director General Emmanuelle Soubeyran agreed that animal health is central to national and regional food security.
“Improved animal health is linked to stronger food security, ensuring sufficient food for the global population and adequate animal protein,” Soubeyran said.
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Translator: Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Primayanti
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