26th Conference of the OIE Regional Commission for Asia

326. Dr Murray advised that the 5 km radius core zone included the competition site which was
surrounded by a perimeter fence. The core zone is surrounded by a surveillance zone which is a
large horse-free area but other animals may be present. The core zone and surveillance zone
covered 2009 sq km. The surrounding protection zone had small registered horse, cattle, pig and
goat populations with all horses electronically identified. He stressed that one of the critical
points was the management measures implemented within and between each zone. He clarified
that the OIE did not provide official recognition for EDFZs but instead the OIE provides
international standards which allowed its Members to make self declarations of free zones, based
on the OIE standards.
327. The Delegate of Pakistan sought clarification on what would happen to horses that had to be
removed in the establishment of the surveillance zone.
328. A representative of the Chinese Government indicated that in the surveillance zone, all horses
were removed compulsorily and compensation was provided to owners. So no horses would be
present during the 2010 games.
329. A representative of the Delegation of India noted that positive cases of equine viral arteritis and
equine infection anaemia were detected during the original surveillance and asked for
confirmation that the health risks from these diseases would be addressed for the Asian Games
2010.
330. Dr Murray replied that the risks would be minimal because no horses would be present in the
surveillance zone. In addition he stressed the solid basis for future surveillance by national
authorities.
331. A representative of the Chinese Government confirmed that surveillance was in place and that it
would continue even beyond the 2010 games since the EDFZ would be maintained. He remarked
on the joint work which was being done and the collaboration with the horse industry and other
key stakeholders.
332. The Delegate of Nepal asked whether there was specific legislation for the creation of the EDFZ
and how long it took to make this legislation.
333. Dr Murray commented on the importance of analysing all potential risks and to modify and
improve relevant legislation as necessary.
334. A member of the Chinese Delegation advised that the evaluation of the EDFZ had been
completed and that a public announcement would soon be made. Ongoing surveillance and other
activities and measures will ensure the safety of the zone. The MOA would ensure the
sustainability of the EDFZ in accordance with the following laws and regulations, namely, the
Animal Epidemic Prevention Law of the P.R. China; Law of P. R. China on the Entry and Exit
Animal and Plant Quarantine; Regulation on Handing Major Animal Epidemic Emergencies of
the State Council; Notice of Guangdong Provincial People’s Government on implementation of
Regional Management of the Guangzhou Asian Games Equine Disease Control Zone; and Notice
of the People’s Government City on Construction of the Specific EDFZ.
335. A representative from Hong Kong noted that the Veterinary Authority of Hong Kong supported
the approach which had been taken and that this was suitable for the region. He stated that a
joint task force between officials and the horse industry was crucial for success in the
implementation and also for sensitising policy makers. He asked how the OIE could facilitate
international movements of horses after competitions, mainly for horses returning to the
European Union. He also asked how the OIE PVS could be applied for ongoing assessment of
EDFZ maintenance.
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