On January 19th, the Memorandum of Agreement Between International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) and Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) on Rice Genomics, Germplasm Enhancement and Agronomic Package Development was signed by Prof. Sun Tan, Vice president of CAAS and Dr. Jean Balié, Director General of IRRI. On this occasion, both sides also discussed and exchanged views on the work deployment of the three joint research platforms, the progress of One CGIAR transition, and CAAS’s participation in IRRI regional research projects within the context of CGIAR reforming.

During the meeting, Prof. Sun Tan reiterated that IRRI is one of the first CGIAR research centers collaborating with CAAS. Over the past 50 years, fruitful results have been achieved in areas of exchanging germplasm resources, platform building, joint project development and capacity building. The collaboration between two parties has jointly enhanced technological innovation capacity and strengths through sharing resources, and made great contribution to the development of regional and worldwide rice industry and S&T advancement.

Dr. Jean Balié pointed out that both sides have not only made breakthroughs in identification of germplasm resources and breeding, but also built sound joint research platforms. This MOA expands and reinforces both existing commitments, addressing challenges to rice production worldwide, and jointly contributing to global food and nutrition security.

Colleagues from the IRRI headquarters, IRRI Beijing Office, and Department of International Cooperation of CAAS participated in the signing ceremony.

By Zhu Jinjin (zhujinjin@caas.cn)