Declaration by Council on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of EPPO

On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO), the Council wishes to express its sincere appreciation for EPPO’s longstanding commitment to safeguarding plant health and plant protection across the EPPO region and beyond.

Since its establishment in 1951, EPPO has played a central role in developing harmonized phytosanitary and plant protection Standards, supporting Member Countries in preventing the introduction and spread of plant pests, and fostering scientific cooperation at regional and global level.

The Council acknowledges the dedication of EPPO’s experts, networks, and partners, whose contributions have strengthened phytosanitary systems and supported plant health and plant protection in the EPPO region ensuring resilient agricultural ecosystems, forestry ecosystems, and natural ecosystems that are protected from emerging threats and sustainably managed for future generations, integrating innovative and responsible plant protection strategies.

As EPPO marks this milestone, the Council reaffirms its support for the Organisation’s mission and its ongoing efforts to address the ever-changing challenges posed by climate change, global trade dynamics, and the rapid spread of invasive pests, which present significant challenges to the field of plant health and plant protection. EPPO’s work remains essential for the resilience of our agricultural and natural environment, and the Council looks forward to continued collaboration in the years ahead.