Kick-off Event - Announcement of the Project

On Thursday, December 5, 2019, was presented the project "Reinforcement of Animal Health and Welfare", funded by the European Union, with the aim to support the development and improvement of agriculture in Serbia.

The project provides support to the Veterinary Directorate of Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management in the process of harmonization with EU legislation and standards in the area of animal health, welfare and farm biosecurity.

Participants of the event were presented the goals and upcoming activities of the project, which will be implemented by June 2021 with the support of the European Union and under the supervision of the Veterinary Directorate of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management, and will concern the promotion of animal health and welfare and development of Serbian agriculture.

“This project will assist Serbia in enhancing greater opportunities for food producers and agricultural products to trade with the EU. It can be done through improvements in animal health and welfare policy, reducing risks to human and animal health also through the improvement of stray dog population management” said Emina Milakara, Acting Director of Veterinary Directorate of Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management.

Animal disease control strategy will reduce the risks of transmission of animal diseases to animals and people. Upgraded biosecurity on farms will better protect animal holdings from the diseases. It will also support the sustainability of agriculture and the protection of the environment. Responsible dog ownership will support decreasing of incidence of straying and welfare problems risk to public safety and reduce the number of dog bite incidents.

“This project will assist Serbia to conduct targeted awareness campaigns, draft a consolidated animal health strategy, monitoring and surveillance programs, but also prepare a Disaster management plan for animals- which becomes ever more relevant in light of the climatic changes” said Sakellaris Hourdas, Head of Operation III in the Delegation of the European Union to the Republic of Serbia.

Environmentally and animal-friendly farming means shared responsibility towards society. This enables the production of high-quality products as a result of keeping and raising, transport and slaughter of animals in the best possible conditions.