Recently, a delegation from the Western Research Institute of CAAS (WRI) visited agricultural research institutions in Uzbekistan to further enhancing technical cooperation in the agricultural field between the two countries.

During the visit, the delegation met with the Chinese Embassy in Uzbekistan to report on the achievements and outcomes of scientific cooperation between the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (CAAS) and Uzbekistan. Embassy leadership appreciated the efforts made by WRI in promoting international agricultural cooperation and expressed hope for continued collaboration to contribute more significantly to agricultural exchanges and development between China and Uzbekistan.

Subsequently, the delegation visited the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan, Uzbek Scientific Research Institute of Cotton Breeding and Seed Production and Agricultural Technologies, and Tashkent State Agrarian University. Both sides reached consensus on specific plans for establishing joint experimental demonstration bases and decided to pool resources to promote innovation and application of agricultural technologies. Additionally, they engaged in in-depth discussions on the reciprocal exchange of students, with plans to promote the exchange and development of agricultural research talent.

Furthermore, preliminary consultations were held between WRI and the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan regarding the establishment of the national agricultural academy. WRI will provide agricultural technology support and consulting services based on Uzbekistan's specific conditions to help local farmers improve production efficiency and income levels. Both sides will also strengthen cooperation in agricultural education and training to enhance the professional competence and skill levels of farmers, contributing to poverty reduction efforts in Uzbekistan.

The visit represents a significant stride in advancing agricultural cooperation between China and Uzbekistan within the Belt and Road Initiative framework, indicating substantial progress in agricultural collaboration between the two countries. WRI remains committed to bolstering partnerships with Uzbekistan's agricultural research institutions, collaboratively advancing initiatives like setting up experimental demonstration bases, facilitating student exchange programs, and establishing an agricultural academy. These efforts actively contribute to agricultural cooperation and development between the two countries while supporting the Belt and Road Initiative. Furthermore, both sides are committed to furthering cooperation and exchanges in poverty reduction, contributing to the global poverty alleviation agenda.