On September 11, 2024, in Riyadh, the Chief Executive of the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey, inaugurated the Codex Coordinating Committee for the Near East (CCNE) training program under the theme "From Knowledge to Action: Empowering the Region for Codex Compliance." The event was attended by representatives from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Secretariat of the Codex Alimentarius Commission.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Aljadhey underscored the importance of collaboration and active participation in improving regional cooperation and developing international standards for food safety. He emphasized that the training program seeks to elevate international integration, build capacities, and enhance active involvement in setting Codex standards, which are vital to consumer health and global food safety.
FAO representative Dr. Angeliki Vlachou commended the SFDA for its leadership in organizing the event and reiterated the need for continued scientific collaboration to enhance food safety. She highlighted FAO's key role in supporting the Codex Alimentarius Commission’s work in developing global food standards. WHO representative Dr. Eva Al Zein stressed the critical link between food safety, proper nutrition, and human development. She noted that regulatory frameworks must evolve to meet emerging challenges in food systems and emphasized the role of the program in bolstering national food safety systems and public health.
Codex Alimentarius Commission Secretary, Dr. Sarah Cahill, expressed gratitude to the SFDA for hosting the event, noting that it offers a valuable platform to exchange knowledge, address challenges, and shape the future of CCNE. She highlighted the opportunity to strengthen regional cooperation and refine Codex standards. CCNE Regional Coordinator Khaled Al Zahrani echoed this sentiment, expressing hope that the program will meet its objectives and enhance the sharing of expertise and experience among Codex members.
The first session, titled "Bridging Data and Expertise: Joint Efforts in Food Safety," covered existing partnerships and initiatives to boost regional cooperation. Participants discussed the role of FAO and WHO committees in Codex legislation, scientific advice programs, and tools for data collection. The session also explored Codex's strategy for 2026-2031 and reviewed the experiences of other Codex Coordination Committees globally.
Throughout the three-day program, attendees will explore a range of critical issues, including innovations in food production systems, food risk assessment, and control tools. The transformation of food systems to improve public health will also be addressed, drawing from Saudi Arabia’s experience and contributions.
