QASIM AL MAASHANI
MUSCAT, JUNE 10
Delegates from Arab nations, the Codex Alimentarius Commission, and international scientific organizations gathered here on Saturday, June 10, for the 2nd Arab Symposium on Codex Alimentarius. The two-day symposium is being hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources in partnership with the Food Safety and Quality Center.
The symposium has four broad objectives: To review the outcomes of earlier meetings held by the main committees of the Codex Alimentarius; To shape the future direction of the Arab initiative on Codex Alimentarius; To delineate the activities of the Arab electronic working groups established within this initiative; and to Establish a robust and harmonized food safety framework across the Arab region.
The symposium coincides with the prestigious 60th anniversary of the establishment of the Codex Alimentarius Commission by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization. As the global reference on food quality, the Commission was established to develop comprehensive guidelines ensuring consumer health and facilitating international food trade. The symposium signifies the renewed commitment of Arab nations to uphold these standards and contribute to the continual advancement of global food safety practices.
Ahmed Eddouaicer, coordinator of the Arab Codex initiative at AIDSMO, emphasized the importance of prioritizing Arab initiatives within the esteemed framework of the Codex Alimentarius. He said that this goal necessitates a focused approach, particularly in fortifying the capacities of member states. To achieve this, extensive studies and scientific literature will be prepared, aimed at propelling advancements in information technology. Additionally, database development in various areas of interest, including risk analysis, will be prioritized. Through unwavering dedication to these fundamental aspects, the overarching ambition is to enhance the effectiveness and proliferation of Arab initiatives within the realm of the Codex Alimentarius.
Dr Hussein al Masroori, director of the Center of Food Safety and Quality in Oman, said that the primary objective of the symposium is to foster a unified standpoint among Arab countries, allowing them to effectively represent their respective populations in matters concerning the system, safety, and quality of food. He said that it is crucial for these countries to align themselves with international organizations like the Codex Alimentarius Commission, particularly when addressing food, which is a fundamental element directly impacting human well-being.
Moreover, standardizing specifications brings substantial benefits to the private sector, responsible for implementing these specifications in manufacturing and production processes. In the absence of a common framework, the private sector faces challenges in meeting diverse requirements. Therefore, establishing unified standards that prioritize consumer welfare while facilitating private sector operations becomes imperative. Such standards are advantageous to both consumers and the private sector, ensuring the safety and quality of food products.
The Second Arab Symposium on Codex Alimentarius is a significant event that will help to advance food safety and international standards in the Arab region. The symposium is a testament to the commitment of Arab nations to ensuring the safety and quality of food for their populations, and it is a valuable opportunity for delegates to share knowledge and best practices.
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