The World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) favours a policy directed towards securing a transfer of scientific knowledge and management skills, aimed at combating specific diseases of domestic animals in developing countries. This policy translates into promotion and finance for twinning projects between institutions accredited to the OIE and institutions which are aiming at accreditation.

The Istituto G. Caporale, in its capacity as OIE Reference Laboratory for Contagious Bovine Pleuropneumonia (CBPP), and as OIE Collaboration Centre for Veterinary Training, Epidemiology, Food Safety and Animal Welfare, has activated a twinning project with the National Center for Animal and Plant Health (CENSA) of Cuba.

From 27 to 30 October 2008, three vets from CENSA were guests at the Teramo centre for a first coordination meeting, which was necessary for getting to know the organization of the Institute in its entirety and for planning the future project activities in detail.

Over the next two years, about twelve Cuban vets will be trained in various aspects of the diagnosis and control of CBPP; experts from the Institute will also conduct training courses on Veterinary Epidemiology and Risk Analysis for the benefit of the representatives of CENSA of Cuba.

This training period will enable subsequent adjustment of management methods and equipment at the CENSA Laboratories to bring them in line with the international standards established by the OIE.