WOAH participated in the Eurasian Economic Commission (EEC) Forum in Astana, contributing to high-level regional discussions on the future of sanitary, phytosanitary, and veterinary systems in the era of digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI).
As part of the Forum, WOAH played a prominent role in a dedicated panel session entitled “Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence in SPS Measures – Innovative Solutions”, organised by the Technical Regulation Block of the Eurasian Economic Commission in cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Digital Development and Artificial Intelligence of Kazakhstan.
The session brought together senior representatives of Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) Member States, international organisations, and technical experts to explore how digital technologies and AI can strengthen sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) systems, enhance risk analysis, improve regulatory transparency, and facilitate safe trade across the region.
WOAH’s participation was marked by the appointment of Dr Mereke Taitubayev, Head of the WOAH Sub-Regional Representation for Central Asia, as moderator of the high-level discussion panel. This role highlighted WOAH’s recognised technical expertise and convening role in strengthening Veterinary Services and supporting innovation in SPS governance.
Opening the session, Dr Taitubayev emphasised the growing importance of digital technologies in improving transparency, surveillance systems, evidence-based decision-making, and trust within veterinary and SPS systems. Discussions also highlighted the role of interoperable digital systems in supporting regional cooperation and reducing barriers to trade.
The panel featured contributions from high-level representatives of national authorities and international organisations, including the Eurasian Economic Commission, the Government of Kazakhstan, the Codex Alimentarius Commission, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), and the World Health Organization (WHO). Participants exchanged experiences on the use of digital technologies and AI in areas such as food safety, veterinary and phytosanitary control, epidemiological intelligence, early warning systems, and predictive analytics.
A key contribution was delivered by Mr Alexander Subbotin, Member of the Board (Minister) in charge of Technical Regulation of the Eurasian Economic Commission, who underscored the strategic importance of interoperable digital ecosystems and common digital processes to strengthen SPS governance and facilitate trade within the Eurasian Economic Union.
Participants widely recognised that technological innovation should reinforce rather than replace scientific expertise and institutional oversight. Discussions reflected strong regional interest in leveraging digitalisation and AI to build resilient, science-based and future-oriented SPS systems.
WOAH’s active contribution to the Forum reinforced its visibility among regional institutions and international partners and further positioned the Organisation as a trusted technical partner in advancing modern, science-based Veterinary Services across Central Asia and the wider Eurasian region.
About the EEC Forum
The Eurasian Economic Commission Forum serves as a regional platform for dialogue among Eurasian Economic Union Member States, international organisations, competent authorities and private-sector stakeholders on economic integration, innovation and regional cooperation. In 2026, the Forum took place in Astana under the priorities of Kazakhstan’s chairmanship of the EAEU.
Astana, Kazakhstan, 28–29 May 2026
