The EU: a Corner Stone of IPPC Resource Mobilization Activities

Fruits

In a historic first, the IPPC Secretariat and the European Commission (DG Health and Consumers (SANCO) and DG Trade) met jointly to discuss the work programme of the IPPC. This important meeting will become a regular feature of IPPC cooperation with the EU and its member states. Discussions were open and positive with areas of particular interest identified. This meeting builds upon an already good working relationship with the EU and its strong support following the EU Council statement of 20 March 2012 in support of the IPPC.

Particularly important were the results of the IPPC Implementation, Review and Support System (IRSS) that is generously supported by the EC. Not only is this programme delivering more than expected, but it is also delivering results ahead of the originally anticipated schedule. The IPPC Secretariat is topping off the IRSS funding to ensure that the programme meets the expectations of the CPM and continues its successes.

The support of the EU has been a crucial stimulus for allowing greater developing country participation in the IPPC Standard Setting programme. Through EU funding sustainable support for developing country participation in the Commission for Phytosanitary Measures (CPM), the Standards Setting (CPM Subsidiary Body), regional workshops on draft International Standards for Phytosanitary Measures (ISPMs), and Expert Working Groups have been possible. The outcomes of the support include a greater understanding of the IPPC standard setting process, increased input from developing countries and greater transparency in the IPPC work Programme.

The exchanges identified key strategic components of the IPPC work programme for which the EC will consider supporting; the need for a balanced approach for all core IPPC activities and fundamental sustainability issues that should be addressed in the immediate and longer- term. Ideas were exchanged on how to address these issues and ways of improving cooperation with the EU to ensure that the IPPC can continue its mandate. Follow-up discussions will be held in the near future.