Panel Discussion Held within the Framework of the International Conference Dedicated to World Veterinary Day. Conference Participants Adopt the “Tbilisi Communiqué”

 

The parties addressed global and regional challenges in the veterinary sector, with particular emphasis on animal health protection measures, the prevention of transboundary diseases, the strengthening of laboratory capacities, and the implementation of the “One Health” approach.


The Deputy Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia, the country’s Chief State Veterinarian and WOAH Delegate, Mr Lasha Avaliani, presented Georgia’s policy vision for the development of the veterinary sector.


“This event aims to promote the veterinary profession and recognize veterinarians engaged in state programs and the private sector. This year’s event is particularly significant due to its high level of representation. The visit of the Director General of the World Organisation for Animal Health to Georgia, along with the strong support expressed by countries of the region, makes this event more substantive and results-oriented,” Mr Lasha Avaliani stated.


The Head of the National Food Agency, Mr Giorgi Iakobashvili, highlighted the progress achieved through close cooperation with international partners and the consistent implementation of state policy.


“Notably, our close collaboration with the World Organisation for Animal Health has played a significant role in strengthening our institutional capacities and bringing them closer to international standards,” Mr Giorgi Iakobashvili noted.


The participants adopted the “Tbilisi Communiqué,” which reflects Georgia’s initiative to seek the official recognition of World Veterinary Day within the framework of the World Organisation for Animal Health and establish a specific date for its observance.


The Director General of the World Organisation for Animal Health, Mrs Emmanuel Soubeyran, representatives from up to 20 countries, and WOAH delegates, attended the conference.