The launch of the new FAO TCP/TUK/4002 project "Development of a Strategy and Roadmap for a National Animal Identification and Traceability System (NAITIS)" took place on May 20 in Ashgabat, at the Archabil Hotel, with the participation of representatives of relevant ministries and departments.

The project is being implemented within the framework of technical cooperation between the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Government of Turkmenistan.

Arslan Soltanmyradov, Head of the International and Scientific Relations Department of the State Veterinary Service, delivered a welcoming speech on behalf of the Ministry of Agriculture of Turkmenistan. In his speech, he emphasized the strategic importance of creating a national animal identification and traceability system as a key element of modern veterinary policy and an important tool for ensuring biological security, sustainable agriculture and international competitiveness of livestock products.

During the event, information about the project was heard from international FAO experts Eran Raizman and Dragan Angelovski. Based on the results of the discussions, international approaches to building identification systems were presented, priorities in the development of a regulatory framework were outlined, and the stages of preparing a national strategy and creating a digital platform were considered.

The NAITIS project is aimed at creating a modern, sustainable system for identifying animals and tracking their movements throughout Turkmenistan that meets international standards. Its implementation involves a comprehensive institutional assessment, the introduction of advanced digital solutions, and advanced training for national specialists.

This project reflects Turkmenistan's commitment to strengthening the livestock industry, developing the agro-industrial complex and integrating it into global food chains, fully complying with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the priorities of state policy in the field of public and animal health.