The CAFIA's activities in the field of international relations in 1999 can be briefly described as expansion of the existing activities with focus on the process of harmonisation with the principles of official food control in the EU.

CAFIA personnel visited some local and international conferences, seminars and educational stays. Their objective was to improve professional knowledge in the fields of inspection and laboratory activities, to gain new information on legislation in the EU and on the existing and future strategy of the European Commission in ensuring food safety and consumer protection.

CAFIA personnel continued to take active part in the Committee for Co-operation with Codex Alimentarius Commission and FAO/WHO. Also co-operation with the French DGCCRF - General Directorate for Competition, Consumer Protection and Suppression of Adulterations - proceeded.

Activities in the Food Law Enforcement Practitioners within the framework of EU - FLEP also expanded. CAFIA as the first country that is not a member of EU, was charged with organising the 16th FLEP Meeting in Prague in March 2000.

It was important that some personal contacts have been established with representatives of the European Commission Delegation in Prague, with some General Directorates of the European Commission in Brussels, with the FVO in Ireland and also with FSAI - the Food Safety Authority of Ireland.

Other activities in the field of international co-operation mentioned in Chapter 6 - Laboratories and Chapter 10 - Certification proceeded to develop.

For more information see the CAFIA web sites www.czpi.cz.