Other instruments are also focussing on the issue of the IAS. These are generally more sectorial conventions, i.e. the ones that attack either an aspect of the problem (problem of the IAS in marine environment for example), or at a more regional level. However, as far as possible, it is necessary to ensure a consistency and synergy between them, which has specifically been foreseen by the Convention on Biological Diversity that has created an Inter-agency liaison group on invasive alien species.
The International Convention on Plant Protection (Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations - FAO) has, since 1952, aimed to protect plants against pests by preventing their introduction and spread. This agreement covers the IAS but only when they meet the definition of "harmful". It also determines standards, particularly in the context of risk assessment of the pest concerned, which are sometimes used as a reference for the IAS. The Directorate General "Animals, plants and feed" of the Public Health, Food Chain Safety and Environment FPS, is responsible for monitoring and implementation of the Convention in Belgium.