Saudi Arabia Launches Middle East Network for Aquatic Animal Diseases, Appoints Jeddah Fish Health and Safety Lab as Reference Laboratory
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – In a significant step towards enhancing the health and safety of aquatic life across the region, the Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) has announced the official launch of the Middle East Network for Aquatic Animal Diseases (MENAAD). Concurrently, the esteemed Fish Health and Safety Laboratory in Jeddah has been designated as the reference laboratory for this crucial network.
This initiative, spearheaded by His Excellency the Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadhli, marks a pivotal moment in the Kingdom’s commitment to safeguarding its vital aquatic resources and fostering regional cooperation in disease surveillance and management. The inauguration took place on November 27, 2022.
The establishment of MENEAD signifies a proactive approach to addressing the growing challenges posed by aquatic animal diseases, which can have considerable economic and ecological impacts on fisheries and aquaculture industries. By creating a unified platform for data sharing, research collaboration, and the dissemination of best practices, the network aims to strengthen early detection, rapid response, and effective control measures for aquatic diseases throughout the Middle East.
The selection of the Fish Health and Safety Laboratory in Jeddah as the designated reference laboratory underscores its advanced capabilities, expertise, and adherence to international standards. As the reference laboratory, it will play a central role in providing specialized diagnostic services, validating testing methodologies, and contributing to the scientific advancement of aquatic animal health within the region. This appointment is a testament to the Kingdom’s investment in developing state-of-the-art facilities and cultivating highly skilled professionals in the field of aquatic animal health.
This forward-thinking development is expected to yield numerous benefits, including:
- Enhanced Disease Surveillance: A coordinated network will improve the ability to monitor and track the prevalence and spread of aquatic animal diseases across the Middle East, enabling timely interventions.
- Strengthened Diagnostic Capacity: The reference laboratory will serve as a hub for advanced diagnostic techniques, ensuring accurate and reliable identification of pathogens.
- Collaborative Research: MENEAD will foster joint research projects, leading to a deeper understanding of aquatic diseases and the development of innovative solutions.
- Knowledge Exchange: The network will facilitate the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and technical training among participating countries, building a robust regional capacity.
- Support for Sustainable Aquaculture: By mitigating the impact of diseases, the initiative will contribute to the sustainability and growth of the aquaculture sector, a key contributor to food security.
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture reiterates its dedication to promoting a healthy and thriving aquatic environment for the benefit of present and future generations. The launch of the Middle East Network for Aquatic Animal Diseases and the appointment of the Jeddah Fish Health and Safety Laboratory as its reference laboratory represent a significant stride towards achieving this vision and solidifying Saudi Arabia’s leadership in regional environmental stewardship.
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mewa.gov.sa published ‘الفضلي يدشّن شبكة الشرق الأوسط لأمراض الأحياء المائية واختيار “مختبر صحة وسلامة الأسماك بجدة” مختبرًا مرجعيًّا لها’ at 2022-11-27 00:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.