Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) Chief Executive Dr. Hisham S. Aljadhey today opened in Riyadh the Codex Coordinating Committee for the Near East (CCNE) training program, titled "From Knowledge to Action: Empowering the Region for Codex Compliance." Representatives of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Secretariat of the Codex Alimentarius Commission participated in the event.
In his opening remarks, Dr. Aljadhey emphasized the crucial role of joint efforts and effective engagement in enhancing regional cooperation, developing international standards, increasing the exchange of expertise among Codex members, and strengthening food safety.
"Through this program, we aim to raise the level of international integration, build capacities, and develop skills. We also strive for active participation in the development of standards issued by Codex to protect consumer health and ensure global food safety," Aljadhey said.
FAO representative Dr. Angeliki Vlachou praised the SFDA for its leadership in organizing the training program. She highlighted the need for ongoing scientific exchange to strengthen food safety and reaffirmed FAO's critical role in supporting the Codex Alimentarius Commission in developing international food standards.
WHO representative Dr. Eva Al Zein stressed that food safety and proper nutrition are essential for health and human development. She urged that regulatory frameworks must adapt to the new challenges facing food systems. "The significance of this program lies in reinforcing national food safety systems and achieving the highest health standards," she added.
Codex Alimentarius Commission Secretary Dr. Sarah Cahill noted that the event provides an excellent opportunity to learn, share knowledge and experiences, identify gaps and challenges, and consider the way forward. "We can shape the future of CCNE together," she said, expressing gratitude to the SFDA for organizing the event and bringing together CCNE members.
CCNE Regional Coordinator Khaled Al Zahrani affirmed that the program is designed to encourage effective participation in the activities and events of the Codex Alimentarius Commission. He conveyed hope that the program will meet its objectives, thereby enhancing the exchange of experiences and knowledge.
The first session, titled "Bridging Data and Expertise: Joint Efforts in Food Safety," provided an overview of existing efforts, partnerships, and opportunities to enhance regional cooperation, as well as the role of FAO and WHO expert committees in Codex Alimentarius legislation. It also showcased the scientific advice program and recommended tools for establishing and collecting data. The Codex Alimentarius strategy for 2026-2031, along with the experiences of Codex Coordination Committees across different regions, also was reviewed.
During the three-day event, participants will discuss important topics such as innovations in food production systems, food risk assessment, and food control assessment tools. The transformation of food systems for improved health will also be addressed, with insights drawn from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's experience.