TEHRAN – The UN Food and Agriculture Organization has investigated the possibility of promoting relationships between the Razi vaccine and the Serum Production Institute, focusing on one health initiative.
Iran’s FAO president, Falk Toilov, held a meeting with Ali Eshaki, director of Tehran’s Raj Institute. Meanwhile, Toilov praised Raj’s longstanding expertise in vaccine development, highlighting its important role in protecting the food production cycle.
“The institute’s in-house scientific capabilities and rich heritage in vaccine production are unique assets not only for Iran but for the entire region,” the official said.
Emphasizing the interconnectivity of animal and human health, he highlighted the importance of one health approach, the joint priorities of the FAO and the World Health Organization (WHO).
In this regard, Toirov pointed out that FAO is actively working to promote one health initiative through joint proposals within the framework of one UN approach.
The initiative will bring together UN agencies such as FAO, UNICEF and UNFPA to promote coordinated efforts to tackle shared health threats in the human-environment interface, along with national stakeholders, including the Ministry of Agriculture, Health and Environment.
Welcoming the proposals discussed during the meeting, Toirov has expressed preparation for the FAO to explore the fields of collaboration, including the design of professional training and development programs. He also expressed FAO’s interest in strengthening cooperation with scientific institutions such as Razi within the framework of the FAO mission.
The conference also touched on a broader vision of international collaboration to combat hunger through science and innovation and to strengthen global food security.
FAO praises the Razi Institute for its achievements
Celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Razi Vaccine and Serum Production Institute, in honor of the excellence in veterinary science and research, Dr. Thanawat Tiensin, assistant director of FAO and director of the Department of Animal Production and Health, highlighted the Institute’s enduring donations to promote the global world of livestock disorders and animal health.
Since its founding in 1924, Tien Singh praised the pivotal role of the Raj Institute in addressing key challenges in animal health. “The World Organization for Animal Health,” he said.
Over the years, the Razi Institute has significantly strengthened its research and production capacity and established itself as a leader in science and technology collaboration. The results include holding international and regional webinars and conferences to address looming animal health issues with the European Commission, focusing on FMD management strategies, including maintaining partnerships with the FAO and the European Commission.
The active participation in the Razi Institute’s global events further highlights its dedication to advancement in veterinary science. In September 2024, the Institute represented Iran at a global conference of FAO hosts on animal health innovation, reference centres and vaccines in Rome, and presented its contributions to sustainable livestock change.