The Secretary of ITPGRFA meets Representative of UN FAO in China

On the morning of May 22, 2023, an important meeting took place in Beijing that marked a significant step towards enhancing global biodiversity cooperation in the field of food and agriculture. Dr. Kent Nnadozie, the Secretary of the FAO International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA), met with Carlos Watson, the representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in China.

 



The timing of this meeting was particularly noteworthy as it coincided with the International Day for Biological Diversity in 2023. Against the backdrop of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF), the two engaged in a fruitful discussion on various issues related to collaboration of global food and agricultural genetic resources.

The ITPGRFA, established in 2004, aims to ensure the conservation, sustainable use, and fair sharing of benefits derived from plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. It serves as an international legal framework for the preservation and exchange of genetic materials that are vital for enhancing crop diversity and resilience in the face of challenges such as climate change and food security. The objectives of the Treaty are well in harmony with the Convention on Biological Diversity, for sustainable agriculture and food security.

During the meeting, Dr. Nnadozie and Mr. Watson reaffirmed the importance of promoting the conservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources. They emphasized the need for increased efforts in research and development, capacity-building, and technology transfer to ensure a more secured world for all life.

China, being one of the world's leading agricultural nations, plays a crucial role in the global food security landscape. Mr. Watson commended China's commitment to biodiversity conservation and its active participation in international initiatives aimed at addressing the challenges faced by the agricultural sector. He highlighted China's efforts in establishing gene banks and implementing sustainable agricultural practices that contribute to the preservation of genetic diversity.

Both parties acknowledged the critical role of the GBF in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to biodiversity conservation and food security. They expressed their support for this year's theme of International Biodiversity Day, which is From agreement to action: Build back biodiversity.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to strengthen collaboration between the ITPGRFA and FAO in China. Dr. Nnadozie and Mr. Watson agreed to explore opportunities for joint initiatives, including knowledge-sharing programs, capacity-building workshops, and the development of best practices for the conservation and sustainable use of genetic resources. They emphasized the importance of involving farmers, indigenous communities, and other stakeholders in decision-making processes to ensure the inclusivity and effectiveness of conservation efforts.




 

In closing, the meeting between Dr. Nnadozie and Mr. Watson symbolized a significant milestone in advancing global cooperation on plant genetic resources for food and agriculture. It underscored the shared commitment of the ITPGRFA and FAO in China to foster collaboration, preserve biodiversity, and strengthen the resilience of our agricultural systems in the face of evolving challenges. By working together, nations around the world can ensure a sustainable and prosperous future for the world's food supply and the millions of people who depend on it.

Linda Wong, Deputy Secretary-General of China Biodiversity Conservation and Green Development Foundation (CBCGDF) accompanied and participated in this meeting. She introduced the efforts of Chinese conservationists in promoting biodiversity conservation in agriculture, as well as the initiative of "World Bee Day 2023: Be Pollinator Protectors and Build an Earth for All" jointly launched on May 21st by over 50 conservation organizations and individuals in China.

Reporter: GJB

Editor: Victoria

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