On the morning August 16th, 2022 in Ha Noi, Viet Nam, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Mr. Phung Duc Tien chaired Vietnam One Health Annual High-Level Policy Forum for Zoonoses (OHP) for the 2021-2025 period.
The forum attracted direct participation of more than 100 delegates from ministries, sectors and relevant domestic and international agencies, including 32 signatories (03 Ministries, namely Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, as well as 29 International and Domestic Development Partners). There were representatives from 21 provinces and hundreds of domestic and international bridge points also participating this event virtually.
Speaking at the Forum, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien emphasized that minimizing the possible emergence and spread of pathogens in human-animal-ecosystem interaction; strengthening the management of food safety; overseeing and preventing antibiotic resistance; recovering and controlling emerging and re-emerging epidemic risks; and controlling environmental factors may potentially affect the health of humans, animals and plants. All of which will be of concern to the Vietnam’s Communist Party, Government, lines ministries and agencies at all levels as well as other partners.
Overview of the Annual High-Level Forum on One Health Partnership for Zoonoses
The participants of the Forum all agreed that the OHP Framework for the 2021-2025 period was developed and managed in the manner suitable with the participation of both international and domestic partners, civil, social and private organizations, NGOs in coordination with state management agencies, under the coordination and connection of OHP Coordinating Office and in accordance with the needs and situation internationally and within Vietnam. Therefore in the case of implementation, it shall bring about many advantages.
The Forum also reaffirmed its commitment to strengthen cooperation in the field of zoonoses prevention; and strengthen the focal point role of MARD for the OHP Framework on the prevention of zoonotic diseases, emphasizing the crucial role of the OHP Coordination Office in coordinating Partners and related parties, supporting and recommending solutions related to the preparation and implementation of OHP activities and programs in order to properly deliver the functions and objectives of OHP Framework effectively.
The Forum had displayed active participation, in the spirit of cooperation and construction of the stakeholders and under careful preparation of the Lead Agency for the Partnership (MARD), along with the active cooperation the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Furthermore, with regards to the companion and active support of the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS), the Forum was held successfully in an atmosphere of contribution and openness.
