Tashkent, Uzbekistan, November 7, 2024 – Today, experts from around the world gathered in Tashkent for the opening of the three-day Scientific-Practical International Symposium on “The Role of Plant Genetic Resources in Global Climate Change and Food Security” dedicated to celebrating the Institute’s 100th anniversary, highlighting RIPGR’s achievements in genetic resource conservation. The event is hosted by the Research Institute of Plant Genetic Resources (RIPGR) of the Republic of Uzbekistan with the support of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan and key international bodies, including the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources, Crop Trust, CIMMYT, ICARDA, and others. The Symposium emphasizes the importance of preserving plant genetic diversity as a cornerstone of sustainable agriculture, bringing together leading researchers, policymakers, and national and regional agricultural research institutions to discuss the vital role of plant genetic resources (PGR) in addressing climate change and strengthening global food security.
The Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) is represented by the Director of the Projects Department Dr. Ismail Abdelhamid who engaged in a high-level ICBA panel discussion on Strategies for conserving plant genetic diversity in Central Asia. Panelists explored the challenges and opportunities for gene banks in the region, including the necessity of innovative conservation approaches and collaborative efforts for effective preservation.
Dr. Ismail Abdelhamid in his speech emphasized the efforts of OIC member states in preserving plant genetic diversity. "Uzbekistan is exemplary among OIC countries, with over 65,000 accessions stored ex-situ, showing leadership in safeguarding these resources essential for future food security," he noted. Dr. Abdelhamid also highlighted the critical need to protect gene banks facing challenges, from financial sustainability to secure from conflict zones, as well as covering the animal genetic resources that are vital in OIC geography.
The symposium features contributions from global seed banks, including Svalbard, and leading research centers, focusing on advancing biotechnology in plant breeding to enhance crop adaptability to climate change. Over the next two days, the event will continue with discussions, group sessions, and a tour of RIPGR facilities, reinforcing global efforts to build resilient food systems through genetic resource preservation.
