The meeting also discussed a quarantine for falcons, and their testing for the bird flu virus.

The Minister of Environment and Water, Dr Mohammed Saeed Al Kindi, said after the meeting, that the mechanism to dispose of the confiscated products from passengers was also discussed.

It was also agreed at the meeting that the follow-up committee should submit daily reports on any suspected bird flu cases, the minister added.

"A decision was taken to publicise the precautionary measures being taken by the emirates, such as the closure of bird-selling outlets located in residential complexes," he pointed out.

He further said: "Food shipments will only be allowed into the country via the Ghuweifat border checkpost and international airports at Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. The imported food consignments must also carry the certificates of origin. Trucks carrying food consignment will be thoroughly screened at all border check points."

Source: Khaleej Times