On 7 October, the 27th meeting of the Inter-governmental Co-ordinating Council on Seed Production of the Commonwealth of Independent States took place in the ‘Awaza’ National Tourist Zone. It was attended by heads of agricultural ministries, scientists and representatives of plant breeding centres from CIS countries, according to the news agency TDH.

Participants discussed the development of inter-state cooperation in the field of plant breeding and seed production, ensuring food security, and the implementation of the Agreement on the Development of the Inter-State Market for Agricultural Seeds.

Particular attention was paid to removing administrative and phytosanitary barriers, improving seed certification, exchanging scientific research findings, and developing varieties resistant to drought and disease. Issues relating to the digitalisation of the sector and the efficient use of land and water resources were also addressed.

On the same day, the 28th meeting of the ‘Semena’ Association took place. Experts discussed the adaptation of seed production to climate change, the standardisation of seed quality, the development of scientific and industrial cooperation, and the application of modern breeding methods, including molecular genetics and digital technologies.

This was followed by the International Conference on Plant Breeding and Seed Production. Participants examined the sector’s development, modern crop cultivation technologies, high-quality seed production and the expansion of joint research programmes.

The conference also addressed issues relating to seed storage and processing, phytosanitary safety, the market for cereals and oilseeds, exports, logistics and public-private partnerships.

Following the events, the participants agreed to continue their cooperation in the fields of plant breeding and seed production, the exchange of expertise, and the introduction of modern technologies into the agricultural sector.