FAO/WHO regional workshop

In the context of globalization and increasing global and regional trade, the countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and neighbouring countries of European Codex Region are highly interested in increasing their knowledge on Codex standards and procedures, and in enhancing their effective participation in Codex work. The relatively recent membership in World Trade Organization (e.g. Russian Federation-2012, Tajikistan-2013,) or engagement in the WTO accession process (Azerbaijan, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan), as well the recent membership with Codex Alimentarius Commission (e.g. Azerbaijan-2011, Tajikistan-2009, Turkmenistan-2012) make capacity development on Codex a priority area. Capacity development is essential for increasing  both the level of participation and technical quality of contributions to Codex work, as well as utilizing  Codex standards, guidelines, recommendations and codes of practice for strengthening national food safety systems with the ultimate aim to ensure efficient protection of consumers of both domestic food markets and those of regional and global trading partners.