(de-news.net) – Foot-and-mouth disease is currently under control in Germany, according to Federal Agriculture Minister Cem Özdemir (Greens). When asked by the media during the ‘Grüne Woche’ in Berlin, Özdemir confirmed that the current measures are effective but emphasized the need to adhere to strict procedures. Although he recognized the challenges these policies place on people in quarantine areas, he emphasized how important they are to stopping an outbreak. Referencing the dire consequences observed in the UK, Özdemir said he sympathized with the concerns of exporters and livestock owners.

Regarding third countries, Özdemir urged the implementation of European regionalization strategies and underlined a dedication to transparency, which would enable the regular export of goods from non-quarantine areas. He stated that he hoped non-EU partners would also adopt this policy.