The 2019-2023 workplan of the European Commission for the Control of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (EuFMD) is aimed at assisting regional networks, risk-based surveillance and capacity building in the European neighborhood for foot-and-mouth (FMD) and similar transboundary animal diseases (referred to as FAST diseases). Within this workplan, a specific programme has been designed for countries of the Middle East, South East European neighbourhood (SEEN), North Africa as well as, countries which are significant for epidemic spread of FAST disease in the European neighbouring regions.

This programme aims at improving capacities on risk mapping, enhancing early warning systems, assisting progression along Progressive Control Pathway (PCP) for FMD control, and supporting regional epidemiological and laboratory networks for FAST diseases.

Furthermore, the EuFMD supports the implementation of actions agreed in the Statement of Intention (SOI) under the framework of GF-TADs, aimed at improving the confidence in effectiveness of control programs and at reducing the risk of epidemics in the region.

The objectives of this meeting are to: 

• share updates on: 

1. the occurrence of FAST diseases and FAST control measures in the four participating countries; 
2. relevant changes in disease risks;    
3. information sharing on FAST diseases outbreaks and vaccination under the SOI, and its improvement; 
4. EuFMD activities and events. 

• agree on priority actions and mutual collaboration between EuFMD, Türkiye, I.R. Iran, Iraq, Pakistan and in the region.