The memorandum states that the two agencies will:

• exchange information and co-operate to ensure early identification of potential sources of conflict in scientific opinions;
• exchange information and views on areas and scientific questions of mutual interest, such as the use of antibiotics in food-producing animals;
• mutually invite representatives to meetings of common interest;
• carry out joint projects;
• develop joint scientific guidance;
• co-operate in risk communication;
• extend co-operation in areas such as information technology, public procurement, legal matters, and policies and best practice on independence, handling conflicts of interest, openness and transparency.

EFSA is an EU agency based in Parma, Italy, which provides independent scientific advice and communication on existing and emerging risks relating to the safety of food and animal feed.

The EMA already has similar working arrangements in place with the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.