77. The Conference was informed of the current state of agricultural research in Asia and the Pacific, and of linkages between FAO and the Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR) in addressing issues of agricultural research and technology development.7 It was noted that the main issues and problems addressed by CGIAR are also at the core of FAO's work. Therefore, it is vital to ensure synergy and complementary actions between the two organizations.
78. The Conference was informed of FAO's efforts to collaborate with CGIAR at the regional level on high priority areas such as rice-based livelihood systems; livestock intensification; biotechnology, bio-security and biodiversity; trade and WTO aspects; and disaster preparedness, disaster relief and global climate change concerns.
79. It was pointed out that informal linkages between FAO and CGIAR at the regional level are good, but could benefit by further institutionalisation of such linkages and improved interaction of FAO-supported regional commissions, associations and networks with CGIAR.
7 APRC/02/INF/5
