Posted by Rita Mu
A new agricultural partnership between Australia and Indonesia will be aimed at building stronger animal health systems to control emerging animal diseases.
Federal Minister for Agriculture Senator Joe Ludwig said the $22 million partnership over four years would help increase agricultural production, ease poverty and promote regional stability.
“The Australia Indonesia Partnership for Emerging Infectious Diseases program will benefit Australia and Indonesia and the region,” he said.
“This program is a great example of how targeted offshore investment strengthens our capacity to prevent animal pests and diseases, such as avian influenza, from reaching our borders.
“Strong biosecurity means working with our neighbours to combat emerging infectious diseases in animals, including those that could affect humans.”
The Australia Indonesia Partnership for Emerging Infectious Diseases will be funded by AusAID.
Minister Ludwig was in Indonesia last week discussing trade, agriculture and food security issues.
Image: theecologist.org