The Australia Philippines Business Council (APBC) and Murdoch University (MU) committed to promoting and developing biosecurity management plans focused on bilateral trade with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two organisations held on 30th May at the Murdoch University Art Gallery in Perth.
The MoU paves the way for great synergy between the two entities. It combines APBC’s advocacy of greater trade and investment between the Philippines and Australia and Murdoch University’s expertise in sustainable development through the Harry Butler Institute, enabling business to deliver maximum economic value to the community while safeguarding the environment.
Biosecurity plays a critical role in maintaining Australia’s status as one of the few countries to remain free from the world’s most invasive pests and diseases. Developing biosecurity planning and protocols for Philippine products will enhance their market access as well as international competitiveness.
The MoU defines the collaborative partnership framework to establish trade-related biosecurity management plans, identify risks and mitigating strategies, and train local staff to manage the process. Collaborative activities such as seminars, workshops, and academic meetings are also part of the MoU.
The MoU was signed by Professor Andrew Deeks, Vice Chancellor and President of Murdoch University, and Rene Cabrera, President of the APBC. Professor Simon McKirdy, Pro Vice Chancellor of Harry Butler Institute and Louisa Cotter, APBC Vice President for WA, will spearhead the implementation of the five-year MoU.
The momentous signing ceremony was held in the presence of Philippine Ambassador to Australia H.E. Hellen De La Vega, DFAT Director-WA Sally Dawkins, Consul Corina Reyes, Honorary Consul Virma Symonds, Project Lead of Harry Butler Science Centre Susan Marie, APBC directors and MU department heads.
In their respective speeches, De La Vega, Deeks, McKirdy, and Cabrera all underscored the new partnership’s role in strengthening Australia-Philippines engagement through the development of programs and activities in areas of shared priorities.
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