French Veterinary Expertise Comes to Kazakhstan: Memorandum of Cooperation Signed

During an official meeting between the Vice Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Amangaliy Berdalin, and a French delegation, the key topics included the development of veterinary infrastructure and the exchange of experience in animal disease diagnostics. Special attention was given to improving the effectiveness of laboratory diagnostics, including the adoption of advanced methods for detecting infections and antibodies in line with European Union standards.

One of the central points of discussion was the potential removal of restrictions on the import of poultry products from France. This initiative followed the official recognition of France by the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH) as a country free from highly pathogenic avian influenza. The French side expressed interest in resuming supplies, while Kazakhstan emphasized strict compliance with sanitary safety requirements.

Among other matters, the parties discussed the possibility of approving a veterinary health certificate required for the import of small ruminants. This move would help expand trade and enable high-quality genetic improvement of livestock in Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan also expressed its interest in enhancing cooperation with the French genetic company SYNETICS, which specializes in animal breeding and selection. The two sides explored the implementation of modern genetic solutions in Kazakhstani farms, which, according to experts, could significantly increase animal productivity and disease resistance.
As part of preparations for international accreditation of veterinary laboratories, the parties agreed to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation between Kazakhstan’s National Veterinary Reference Laboratory and its counterpart in France. The document outlines plans for joint research, specialist exchanges, and the use of advanced diagnostic methods—particularly in detecting rabies virus antibody titers.

At the conclusion of the meeting, representatives from both countries confirmed their shared intention to deepen scientific and technical cooperation in the fields of veterinary control and sanitary expertise. According to participants, this partnership will open new opportunities to strengthen biosecurity, facilitate knowledge exchange, and boost trade relations between Kazakhstan and France.

Key Takeaways:
• Kazakhstan and France agreed on veterinary laboratory cooperation — introducing EU-level diagnostic standards.
• Discussion underway on lifting the ban on French poultry imports and approving health certificates for small livestock.
• Kazakhstan aims to develop strategic collaboration with SYNETICS in genetics and breeding.