Agriculture Secretary Ann M. Veneman yesterday said the USDA will continue to be vigilant in its efforts to prevent foot and mouth disease (FMD) from entering the United States, including intensified scrutiny and inspections at ports of entry and a temporary import prohibition of swine, ruminants and products that could potentially carry the virus from the European Union and other countries that have confirmed cases of this animal disease.

In a get-acquainted meeting, European Union Commissioner David Byrne and Secretary Veneman discussed many issues of interest including trade, biotechnology, and the current FMD situation. The meeting was very productive and both look forward to working together on various issues in the future.

“We had a very productive and cordial meeting today,” said Secretary Veneman. “We discussed a wide range of issues important to our countries and we look forward to working together and continuing to strengthen relationships.”

Among other important issues, they discussed the current FMD situation in Europe and the current U.S. temporary prohibition of certain products from the European Union. The Secretary gave no indication of a regionalization or lifting of the temporary restrictions at this time