Tbilisi Hosts International Conference on World Veterinary Day

An International Conference dedicated to World Veterinary Day is underway in Tbilisi, where the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, Mr. David Songulashvili; the Director General of the World Organisation for Animal Health, Mrs. Emmanuel Soubeyran; the Minister of Internally Displaced Persons from the Occupied Territories, Labour, Health and Social Affairs of Georgia, Mr. Mikheil Sarjveladze; and the Chair of the Agrarian Issues Committee of the Parliament of Georgia, Mr. Gela Samkharauli delivered opening remarks.


Mr David Songulashvili congratulated veterinary professionals on their professional day and expressed his appreciation for their contribution to the field. He underscored the critical role of veterinary services in advancing the agricultural sector and safeguarding public health.


“The support of the World Organisation for Animal Health once again highlights the significance of this event and showcases Georgia’s progress in this field. It is particularly important to mention that this platform enables professional dialogue and exchange on international and regional challenges. Such engagement contributes to the continued advancement and development of the sector, which is crucial for our country,” the Minister stated.


WOAH Director General Emmanuel Soubeyran emphasised Georgia’s notable progress in the veterinary domain and its growing role within the region.


“Following last year’s meeting with the Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture, I am once again convinced of the progress Georgia has achieved in the veterinary sector. I wish to thank you for your close cooperation with the World Organisation for Animal Health and for your commitment to strengthening the field. Georgia’s achievements are truly commendable,” noted Mrs Emmanuel Soubeyran.


Mr Mikheil Sarjveladze emphasized the importance of inter-sectoral cooperation, noting that similar conferences facilitate knowledge exchange and the establishment of coordinated approaches.


“Without effective cooperation with the agricultural sector, it would have been significantly more challenging for the healthcare system to achieve malaria-free status. Other national successes, including progress in rabies control, are likewise the result of close and coordinated collaboration. Events of this format provide an opportunity to deepen our cooperation further,”  stated Mr Sarjveladze.


The conference brings together representatives from up to 20 countries, along with WOAH delegates. Discussions focus on global and regional challenges in veterinary medicine, including animal health protection measures, prevention of transboundary diseases, strengthening laboratory capacities, and implementing the “One Health” approach.