On August 12, the 3rd meeting of the National Intersectoral Coordinating Committee for the implementation of the "One Health" approach in Turkmenistan took place at the Public Health and Nutrition Center in Ashgabat.

The National Intersectoral Coordinating Committee for the implementation of the "One Health" approach was created at the national level to coordinate, communicate, and effectively implement joint activities in this field.

The committee includes representatives from the country's ministries and agencies. During the meeting, reports were heard from the national coordinators for the implementation of the "One Health" approach from the State Veterinary Service, the Ministry of Health and Medical Industry, and the Ministry of Environmental Protection of Turkmenistan.

Arslan Soltanmyradov, Head of the Department of International and Scientific Relations at the State Veterinary Service under the Ministry of Agriculture of Turkmenistan and the national coordinator, delivered a report on the country's progress in implementing the "One Health" approach in the field of animal health. He noted key achievements in strengthening the prevention of zoonotic diseases and the efforts aimed at improving and implementing international standards, training personnel, and developing intersectoral cooperation.

The "One Health" concept is not just an international initiative, but a living embodiment of ancient wisdom, according to which a strong nation is a healthy people, a well-tended land, and protected animals. Today, in the context of global changes, this understanding is becoming particularly acute. New diseases know no borders; the wind of change brings not only progress but also threats.

Relying on years of experience, a developed network of territorial units, and a laboratory base, the State Veterinary Service under the Ministry of Agriculture makes a significant contribution to the prevention, early detection, and effective response to zoonotic diseases.

The goals and objectives for creating the National Intersectoral Coordinating Committee are:

• To create mechanisms for coordination, communication, and cooperation, as well as mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating activities related to the implementation of the "One Health" approach in the country and between the relevant sectors.

• To provide support in developing a nationwide policy for the implementation of the "One Health" approach in the country.

• To strengthen the capacity of the national system regarding the implementation of the "One Health" approach, including issues of planning and readiness for various risks in the interconnectedness of human health, animal health, and ecosystems.

ORIENT