As part of the Wheat Programme, IOFS conducts a series of Training Workshops and other relevant activities in Central Asia under the banner "Seeds of Tomorrow: Innovations Testing for Resilient Agriculture in Central Asia." Uzbekistan, a key participant, actively seeks advanced technologies and methods to enhance its wheat production and agricultural productivity. The IOFS supports these efforts and applauds the country's commitment to fostering robust cooperation and initiating impactful projects.
During an official visit to Uzbekistan, Prof. Dr. Zulfiqar Ali, Director of Programs and Projects, along with Mrs. Makpal Bulatova, Programme Manager had the opportunity to visit the Uzbekistan Gene Bank and meet with Dr. Zafar Ziyayev, Head of the Scientific Research Institute of Plant Genetic Resources of Uzbekistan. The Institute hosts a comprehensive collection of over 43,000 accessions from 100 agricultural crops, including endangered species, unique crops, new international varieties, and ancient local crops with their wild relatives, all preserved in medium-term storage. These efforts are part of a broader initiative to enhance the National Genebank, develop economically significant crop varieties, and integrate non-traditional crops into sustainable agricultural practices.
During the visit, the conversations highlighted the critical need to preserve genetic resources, enhance the exchange of genetic materials and knowledge, and promote the sharing of best practices between countries. Additionally, the parties explored potential collaborative activities and projects under the IOFS "Development of National Gene Bank in the OIC" programme with the aim to have significant impacts in the region.
