Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — From 25 to 28 August, a high-level delegation from the Republic of Uzbekistan is visiting Azerbaijan for a familiarization trip aimed at exchanging experience in modern food security management.

The visit is organized with the support of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) representation in Uzbekistan.

On 25 August, the delegation, led by First Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Sanitary-Epidemiological Wellbeing and Public Health of the Ministry of Health of Uzbekistan, Nurmat Atabekov, visited the Azerbaijan Food Safety Agency (AFSA).

During the meetings, both sides discussed prospects for cooperation, plant protection, animal health, and strengthening national food security systems. AFSA Deputy Chair Zakia Mustafayeva highlighted the dynamic development of Uzbek-Azerbaijani relations in recent years, facilitated by mutual visits, bilateral agreements, and joint initiatives.

The Uzbek delegation received detailed information on ongoing reforms in Azerbaijan, including the implementation of risk-based inspection approaches, crisis management mechanisms, and the development of rapid alert systems. Key topics reviewed included:

• Control and inspection procedures, including the application of HACCP standards;
• Import and export requirements for food products;
• Registration procedures for new products, food additives, pesticides, veterinary drugs, and feed additives;
• The operation of the national digital system AQTIS;
• Public engagement methods and informational campaigns.

As part of the program, the delegation also visited the Azerbaijan Food Security Institute (AFSI), border inspection points, and laboratories, gaining firsthand experience in the practical application of the “single window” model for monitoring international food shipments.

The knowledge gained during the visit will help strengthen Uzbekistan’s institutional framework, develop laboratory infrastructure, and engage a wide range of stakeholders in the country’s food security sector.

The delegation included representatives from the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Agriculture, Veterinary Committee, Agency for Plant Quarantine and Protection, State Customs Committee, Accounts Chamber, and the Agency for Strategic Reforms under the President of Uzbekistan.

This initiative is part of FAO-supported efforts to enhance food security management efficiency and facilitate trade.

Studying Azerbaijan’s experience will enable Uzbekistan to strengthen consumer protection systems, expand access to safe and high-quality food products, and increase competitiveness in international markets.