Zambian Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives opened the 5th session of the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures

His Excellency the Honourable Peter Daka, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives of Zambia opened the 5th session of the Commission on Phytosanitary Measures on 22 March. In his opening remarks he stressed the importance of the IPPC. He noted the importance of pathway management and safe trade to avoid the introduction of pests. He highlighted the need to achieve more recognition and gain political and financial support in order to improve implementation. He concluded that standards that are developed take their full value when they are implemented and countries get the benefits of market access. The Minister declared the 5th session of the CPM open. The Chairperson noted this was the first time that the CPM was opened by a Minister and insisted on the importance of such support to the Convention.