November 16, 2005

Australia to contribute A$4 million to APEC bird flu fund

Australia has pledged A$4 million for an Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) support fund against bird flu, during the latest APEC meeting in South Korea. Another A$2 million would help institutions in APEC countries dealing with animal and human health.

The funds would be used to improve areas such as surveillance, reporting and planning preparedness. Australia added that a proper communication system was needed in anti-bird flu efforts.

Australia had earlier hosted a meeting of APEC officials in Brisbane, Queensland state, to develop a regional strategy against bird flu. The latest meeting in South Korea allowed APEC officials to further discuss and make conclusions on recommendations from the Brisbane summit.