03/10/2007 (Agence Europe) - In a press release published on 25 September, the Union of European Veterinary Practitioners (UEVP) welcomed the new European “animal health” strategy (EUROPE 9505). The UEVP said that it supports the four targets in this strategy, particularly those on guaranteeing a high level of protection to public health and developing a culture of biosecurity and a system for sharing responsibilities and costs. The setting up of a farm surveillance system by veterinaries will allow for easier implementation of the “hygiene package”, notes the UEVP, which welcomes the initiatives announced in animal identification areas, vocational training and the promotion of high animal welfare standards in the EU. (lc)