What significant program was initiated by FAO to eradicate rinderpest?

The correct choice highlights the Emergency Prevention System for Transboundary Animal and Plant Pests and Diseases (EMPRES), which was specifically initiated by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to address and eventually eradicate rinderpest, a serious viral disease affecting cattle and other members of the Bovidae family.

The EMPRES program provided a global effort involving surveillance, early warning systems, and coordinated control strategies to combat rinderpest outbreaks. It was pivotal in mobilizing resources, facilitating research, and promoting vaccination campaigns that contributed to the global eradication of the disease, which was officially declared successful in 2011.

In contrast, the other programs mentioned do not directly focus on rinderpest. Codex Alimentarius is related to food safety and food standards. World Food Day promotes awareness of food security issues, and the Technical Cooperation Program offers assistance for various development projects but does not specifically target rinderpest eradication like EMPRES does. Thus, the significance of EMPRES lies in its targeted approach to a specific transboundary animal disease, making it the correct answer.