Leading scientific specialists in agricultural issues met in Argentina’s Jujuy Province.
Buenos Aires, 01 June 2018 (IICA). Representing the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture (IICA), Policy Specialist, Edith Obschatko, attended the G20 Meeting of Chief Scientists and shared the Institute’s vision on agricultural activity as an engine for wealth creation and development in the Americas.
Addressing experts at the meeting, which took place from 28 to 30 May in Argentina’s northern province of Jujuy, Obschatko posited that the use of research and innovation to adapt agriculture to climate change and the practice of sustainable land management are fundamental to a sustainable increase in production that contributes to food security.
In this vein, she elaborated on IICA’s activities, its mission and objectives; spoke to agriculture’s key role in creating opportunities and generating income; and also addressed the topic of gene modification.
Obschatko maintained that “IICA recognizes the extraordinary possibilities that this technology offers for growth in animal and plant production, and encourages countries to analyze and exchange ideas on regulations in this area, in order to increase trade, while maintaining biosecurity and communicating effectively”.
IICA’s presentation to the G20 forum also highlighted the history of this institution that for over 75 years has supported agricultural development in its 34 Member States.
The more than 60 delegates who attended the event focused on the impact of climate change on agricultural production, adequate soil management and gene modification, and also developed proposals for a sustainable food future, which was one of the priorities defined by Argentina’s G20 Presidency.
About the G20 Meeting of Agricultural Chief Scientists
This is a G20 forum that brings together heads of agricultural science and technology organizations in member countries to analyze relevant and emerging topics that contribute to the development of agriculture and to formulate policy recommendations for governments on the issues of research and development in agriculture and nutrition.
Argentina is the G20 chair for 2018 and invited IICA to participate, along with three international entities: FIDA, the Global Research Alliance and the Tropical Agriculture Platform (whose Secretariat is managed by the FAO).
The meeting of scientific leaders has been held annually since 2012 and it facilitates discussions on key topics for agriculture and nutrition to identify and apply strategies for common solutions.
About IICA
IICA is the specialized agency for agriculture of the Inter-American system, with a mission to stimulate, promote and support the efforts of its 34 Member States to achieve agricultural development and rural well-being through international technical cooperation of excellence.
More information:
Sonia Novello, Communication Specialist, IICA Delegation in Argentina
sonia.novello@iica.int
