H. de HAEN (Assistant Director-General, Agriculture Department): In introducing this Agenda Item, I wish to draw your attention to Conference document C 91/24, which provides you with a progress report and outlines the related matters on which a decision of the Conference is sought.
With me on the podium are Mr Papasolomontos, the Director of the Plant Production and Protection Division. Mr Esquinas, the Secretary of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources. Jointly, I hope we will be able to give you answers to your questions.
Plant genetic resources (PGR) are vital to the preservation of global biological diversity and the advancement of agricultural production. To make full use of plant genetic resources modern tools of plant breeding and biotechnology have to be applied. Thus there is a clear mutual dependence and need for close interaction between countries which are rich in germplasm, among which are many developing countries, and countries which have reached an advanced stage of breeding and biotechnology. Many developing countries also feature in this latter group.
One of the main purposes in establishing the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources in the mid 1980s was to facilitate this very interaction between the various groups of countries. The Commission provides an international forum for discussion and negotiation to overcome controversial issues and constraints. The formal framework of cooperation between countries is the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources.
Mr Chairman, may I use this opportunity to commend the atmosphere of harmony and cooperation that has been established amongst the 111 country-membership of the Commission. FAO also recognizes the very constructive contribution made by a number of NGOs in this context. An example is the Keystone Centre which organized a series of International Dialogues on PGR. These allowed the main actors and experts in this field to discuss the issues in their personal capacities and to make valuable suggestions and recommendations that paved the road for the consensus and compromises
reached by the governments through the Commission. The constructive support of other NGOs, such as the Rural Advancement Foundation International (RAFI) and Genetic Resources Action International (GRAIN) are welcomed by FAO.
Resolutions 4/89 and 5/89 unanimously approved by the last Session of this Conference, recognized the rights of both donors of technology (Plant Breeders' Rights), and donors of germplasm (Farmers' Rights), to be compensated for their contributions. These Resolutions have permitted 14 new countries to adhere to the International Undertaking, with just a few yet to withdraw their original reservations. One hundred and three countries have now adhered to the International Undertaking. It should also be noted that a Memorandum of Understanding, to ensure cooperation and coordination of efforts, has been finalized and signed between FAO and IBPGR. Finally, let me put on record that following the request of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources the FAO Seed Laboratory is being transformed into a Global Information and Early Warning System on Plant Genetic Resources.
As to the safeguarding of genetic resources for future generations, a major objective of the Undertaking, approximately 30 countries have agreed to the free exchange of germplasm and have offered to put their base collections in a network under the auspices of FAO; IBPGR has agreed to merge its register of base collections under this network and to provide the necessary technical and scientific assistance for running it. Within this context, several countries have offered space in their national facilities to store ad honorem truly international collections under FAO jurisdiction. Norway has offered to establish an international genebank, under permafrost conditions, for storing national and international germplasm collections.
Through the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources countries are also negotiating other international agreements that will facilitate the safety, exchange and sustainable use of plant germplasm and related biotechnologies (i.e. in matters related to collecting and transfer of germplasm and the use of biotechnology as it affects plant genetic resources).
The Commission expressed the desire to systematize its work through two major activities: a periodic report on the State of the World's Plant Genetic Resources PGR evaluating the current situation and identifying gaps and needs; second, and a Global Plan of Action, based upon the former, to identify priorities and share the tasks among the different organizations involved. The Plan of Action will include specific programmes and projects to be implemented by national, international and non-governmental organizations. First initiatives to fulfill these very important tasks have been taken. The Commission has recognized the far-reaching implications and costs involved in the preparation of these activities, and has requested FAO to convene a Fourth International Technical Conference on plant genetic resources. It also recommended that the Plan of Action be financed through an International Fund.
May I now draw the attention of the delegates to decisions which, according to our understanding, would be expected from the Conference:
Item 1 is the Draft Resolution on the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources, presented in Appendix B. During the last Session of the Conference, while approving the Agreed Interpretation on Farmers' Rights
Resolutions, a number of countries considered that more negotiations were still needed on inter alia the terms governing the availability of breeders' lines, and the implementation of Farmers' Rights and National Sovereignty over plant genetic resources. The draft Resolution in front of you is the result of exhaustive negotiations which have been carried out through the FAO Commission on Plant Genetic Resources and the last Session of the Council. By adopting it by consensus the Conference would be recognizing the careful attention and guidance given by Member Nations, which have greatly assisted the Secretariat in drafting this Resolution. The Resolution, once adopted, would emphasize the sovereign rights of nations over their plant genetic resources; it would set out the discretionary rights of breeders in respect of the availability of breeders' lines and the Resolution would also endorse the implementation of farmers' rights through an International Fund on Plant Genetic Resources. The policies, programmes and priorities of such a fund would be determined and overseen by the Commission on PGR, on which the donors of genetic, financial and technological resources are all represented.
The Fund is intended to be utilized by the different national, international and non-governmental organizations dealing with Plant Genetic Resources. This Resolution, once adopted, is expected to become the third annex to the International Undertaking.
Item 2 for your consideration is the International Code of Conduct for Collecting and Transfer of Germplasms which is presented as Appendix C.
The last Session of this Conference endorsed the request of the Third Session of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources that the Organization draft this Code of Conduct for the Collection and Transfer of Germplasm. The Code will contribute, we hope within the context of the FAO Global System on Plant Genetic Resources to the conservation and rational use of biodiversity for sustainable development by providing broad guidelines for plant germplasm collection and transfer, transfer across the borders. A draft has been discussed by the Fourth Session of the Commission and its Working Group and their comments have been incorporated into the present draft, together with the written comments received by the deadline of 1 July 1991 from several members and from observers. The Secretariat trusts that the Conference will find the present text both fair and balanced, reflecting to the greatest extent possible the concerns of member countries.
Item 3 for your consideration is the Fourth International Technical Conference on Plant Genetic Resources and is presented as Appendix D. This Technical Conference will follow the three previous ones hosted by FAO, this may not be known to all of you, in 1967, 1973, 1981 respectively. It will be held after UNCED in order to draw from UNCED's conclusions and recommendations. The Technical Conference will review the first 'State of the World's Plant Genetic Resources' and the 'Global Plan of Action on Plant Genetic Resources' to which I have already referred earlier to be prepared before the Conference, which is between now and the Conference, through a number of appropriate expert and regional meetings and with the assistance of an expert working group. The Commission and the FAO Council strongly supported this Conference, and agreed that it should be funded through extra-budgetary contributions by countries, and co-sponsored by other organizations involved, especially the CGIAR. The Secretariat has
calculated that a two-year preparatory process and the holding of the Conference will cost approximately US$3 million. A few countries have already expressed their willingness to explore supporting the cost of the finance of the preparatory process and the Conference and we appreciate this. The Secretariat is initiating consultation with potential donor countries, but cannot initiate the preparatory process and technical meetings without firm financial commitments; you will understand that I underline this. The preparatory process of the Conference is long and it is important that we initiate it as soon as possible. I would like to encourage therefore delegates from countries that might be interested in financing the Conference to take this opportunity of being here to discuss it with us during your stay in Rome.
Those are my introductory explanations. I look forward to the questions which the delegates may have.
CHAIRMAN (Original language Arabic) : Thank you Mr de Haen for this fine introduction to Agenda Item 9. As you have said, we will be focusing on three main points, namely the draft resolution and the International Undertaking connected from that, as well as the International Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collecting and Transfer and the third question concerns the Fourth International Technical Conference on Plant Genetic Resources. So ladies and gentlemen, I hope in your statements you will focus on these three specific points so as to enable the Secretariat to take on board what you have to say and then incorporate it in the report of the Commission.
Michel MOMBOULI (Congo): Nous voudrions tout d'abord remercier le Secrétariat pour avoir bien voulu mettre à la disposition de la Conférence ce rapport intérimaire de ses activités sur le système mondial de conservation et d'utilisation des ressources phytogénétiques. Nous voudrions en particulier remercier le présentateur de ce document C 91/24.
Ainsi qu'il ressort de l'annexe à ce document, le Congo est membre de la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques depuis sa création. Il est également membre du groupe de travail de cette Commission et nous avons donc adhéré à l'engagement international des ressources phytogénétiques. C'est vous dire que nous avons eu plus d'une occasion pour exprimer nos vues sur ce domaine tout au long des différentes sessions, tant du groupe de travail que de la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques, qui ont analysé l'engagement et procédé à son interprétation.
Pour ces raisons, nous aurions pu nous taire, mais comme nous sommes à la Conférence et que la Conférence est l'organe suprême de l'Organisation et doit sanctionner les différentes activités de cette Organisation, nous avons jugé utile de prendre la parole à ce stade de nos travaux.
Nous pensons que tous ceux qui ne sont pas membres du groupe de travail et de la Commission conviendront avec nous que ce document C 91/24 est très riche en enseignements dans la mesure où il rappelle, depuis leur origine, les différentes activités menées par notre Organisation dans ce domaine à travers les différents mécanismes du groupe de travail, de la Commission, etc.
Cela étant dit, nous allons donc essayer de circonscrire notre intervention aux principales questions qui nous sont soumises.
Parmi ces principales questions, il y a le projet de résolution sur l'engagement international sur les ressources phytogénétiques qui figure comme annexe au document C 91/24. Sur ce point, nous voudrions dire que la dernière version qui nous est soumise ne nous pose pas de problèmes particuliers, dans la mesure où l'accent a été mis sur la reconnaissance des droits des agriculteurs que nous voudrions voir devenir une réalité concrète, et également sur les mécanismes qui pourraient rendre concrète cette réalité, à savoir le Fonds international pour les ressources phytogénétiques, en faveur duquel nous sommes tout à fait acquis.
Je voudrais également profiter de l'occasion pour dire que l'esprit dans lequel les différents textes qui nous sont soumis ont été rédigés nous convient tout à fait, dans la mesure où certaines notions qui n'apparaissaient pas dans la première version y figurent actuellement, notamment la souveraineté des Etats sur les ressources phytogénétiques relevant de leur site.
Le deuxième problème qui nous est soumis est le projet de Code international de conduite qui a été enrichi à la lumière des avis, des commentaires et des suggestions du groupe de travail et de la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques, qui pendant l'intersession coordonne les activités de l'Organisation et donne des orientations. Ici aussi, nous voudrions dire que nous rendons compte que les avis que les uns et les autres ont émis au cours du groupe de travail, et également au cours des différentes sessions de la Commission, ont été dûment tenus en ligne de compte. On retrouve toujours cet aspect de la souveraineté des Etats sur les ressources phytogénétiques de leur site. Nous voudrions dire que nous sommes très ouverts pour discuter cette dernière version avec les participants à la Conférence, mais d'ores et déjà nous sommes favorables à cette dernière version qui nous est présentée comme annexe C au document C 91/24.
Le dernier point sur lequel nous sommes appelés à nous prononcer est celui de la Conférence technique internationale sur les ressources phytogénétiques qui serait la quatrième Conférence technique. Comme nous avons eu l'occasion de le dire en d'autres circonstances, nous pensons que le moment est venu pour que cette Conférence se tienne, en mettant l'accent particulièrement sur deux points essentiels, à savoir l'état des ressources phytogénétiques dans le monde et le plan d'action mondial pour les ressources phytogénétiques.
Pour terminer, malgré toutes les difficultés que l'Organisation a pu rencontrer tout au long du processus concernant les ressources phytogénétiques, nous pouvons estimer qu'un certain parcours a été fait, bien que beaucoup de choses restent à faire. Nous pensons aussi qu'à l'instar du domaine des ressources phytogénétiques l'Organisation devrait d'ores et déjà réfléchir pour prendre en charge l'autre domaine qui souffre un peu d'abandon, à savoir celui des ressources zoogénétiques. Nous espérons vivement que, dans les mois qui vont suivre, des dispositions puissent être entreprises par l'Organisation pour faire en sorte que les deux bras fonctionnent, que les progrès accomplis dans le domaine des ressources phytogénétiques puissent également profiter aux ressources
zoogénétiques qui, comme chacun le sait, présentent aussi un certain nombre de problèmes.
Voilà ce que je voulais dire à l'occasion de l'examen de ce point de l'ordre du jour. Nous aurions pu, bien sûr, dire beaucoup de choses, mais nous pensons que nous en avons assez dit au sein du groupe de travail et de la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques. Nous nous limitons à lancer un appel pour que ceux qui n'ont pas encore adhéré à l'engagement des ressources phytogénétiques puissent le faire et deviennent très prochainement membres de la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques.
CHAIRMAN (Original language Arabic) : Thank you for a most welcome statement, delegate from the Congo. I can confirm that the draft resolution we have before us does indeed call upon us to abide by the rights of farmers and the sovereign rights of the governments over their resources.
HUANG YONG-NING (China) (Original language Chinese): First of all, I would like to express my appreciation to Dr de Haen for having presented this report so lucidly.
We are aware that in the past few years FAO has been extremely active through the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources, and this has contributed to both the protection of those resources and their exchange as well. We can certainly go along with the idea of conducting a study of the global status of plant genetic resources. We find that entirely satisfactory and we believe that the Organization should have constructive cooperation with the IBPGR. We can also go along with the draft resolution which is found in Appendix B.
Turning to the International Code of Conduct for Germplasm Collecting and Transfer, we have already expressed some of our views in this connection and we considered the International Code to be of great importance. We will call upon the relevant ministries and departments in our country to carry out a more in-depth study thereupon. So far we have not actually formally joined this activity, but we are thinking about it most seriously, and we will do our utmost to join the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources.
Ulf SVENSSON (Sweden): The impoverishment of the biological diversity of the planet is alarming. Genetic erosion is accelerating. Plant species of importance to agriculture are lost forever. The genetic base of the world food supply is under a growing stress. This appalling fact has met with grave concern all over the world. That concern is reflected inter alia in the final report of the important Keystone International Dialogue Series on Plant Genetic Resources.
There is a pressing need for decisive action to conserve and sustainably utilize plant genetic resources. These efforts must not only aim at the domesticated species including the major food crops and the landraces. Of ever greater importance to the development of sustainable agriculture is the preservation of the wild and weedy relatives to the major food crops and even the genetic resources of unrelated wild species.
The build-up of resistance to pests and diseases through plant breeding will make it possible to minimize the use of environmentally harmful chemicals. Food security for a growing world population will to an increasing extent depend on successful plant breeding leading to a sustainable and environmentally sound improvement in the yield of major food crops. Plant breeding is thus, in the view of Sweden, a key field of action in sustainable agriculture and in the efforts to achieve food security.
From this perspective, Sweden considers it of the greatest importance to take action to make the Global System on Conservation and Utilization of Plant Genetic Resources fully operational. Major components of a global system have been created by FAO. Much work remains, however, to be done in order to improve the capacity of the system, to promote effective and sustained action to stop the alarming genetic erosion in the world. Important proposals for further action are before us in the very substantial progress report on the Global System presented to us by the Secretariat.
Sweden considers the proposal to hold a fourth International Conference that would contribute to the preparations of a report on the state of the World's Plant Genetic Resources and a global plan of action to be an important step in the efforts to enhance the effectiveness of the global system.
We are also in favour of the efforts to create a Global Information and Early Warning System on Plant Genetic Resources. These efforts must, however, be closely coordinated with action that will be taken on this issue by the future Global Convention on Biological Diversity. Sweden further welcomes the very substantive progress made in the establishment of a network of ex situ base collections in close and good cooperation with the IBPGR.
Mr Chairman, an International Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collecting and Transfer is an important tool in the efforts to make the global system on plant genetic resources fully operational.
Such an instrument will inter alia contribute to ensuring that any collecting of germplasm will only be undertaken with full respect for national laws, local customs, rules and regulations. Sweden, however, is of the opinion that more work remains to be done in the preparation of a Final Draft Code of Conduct. It is being discussed in the Preparatory Committee for the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development in 1992. We suggest that the present draft is referred to the Commission for further examination and final negotiation of this very important future Instrument.
The draft resolution submitted to the Conference in order to become the third Annex to the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources has made useful progress in the development of the principles for access to plant genetic resources. It highlights the sovereign rights of nations to their plant genetic resources.
The draft resolution, however, also recognizes that further clarification is needed on conditions of access to plant genetic resources. Efforts to that end are being undertaken in the negotiations of the Global Convention on Biological Diversity. The importance of access to genetic resources on
mutually agreed terms has been stressed in these negotiations. Parties to the future Convention will further undertake to create conditions that will facilitate access and not impose restrictions on access to genetic resources that run counter to the principles of the future Convention.
In the negotiations, a link is being established between the provisions on access to genetic material and those on access to technology relevant to the conservation and sustainable use of biological diversity including plant genetic resources, and to technology that makes use of genetic material - that is, biotechnology.
In future work on clarification of the conditions of access of the undertaking, efforts should be made to harmonize fully the principles of access with those of the future Biodiversity Convention.
The draft resolution submitted by the Council further considers that in situ and ex situ conservation are important and complementary. Sweden agrees with this but would in this context like to submit that as the interest in the wild and weedy relatives of the major food crops and in other wild species is increasing in modern plant breeding, the importance of in situ conservation is growing. This is also the case in many instances as concerns the conservation of landraces. At the same time, we are fully aware of the importance of urgent action to improve ex situ conservation in all parts of the world and in particular of the importance of effective regeneration. This opens up an area for fruitful and mutually beneficial cooperation between developed and developing countries. Major efforts are needed to build up safe genebanks in the developing countries. Sweden strongly supports the Council's recommendation that urgent studies should be undertaken by the FAO to identify any possible danger to the germplasm stored in genebanks and to find proper solutions. We are aware of the appalling situation in many of the genebanks all over the world.
The funding of plant genetic conservation and utilization programmes, in particular in the developing countries, is a major issue in the draft resolution. It is clear to Sweden that effective conservation and sustainable utilization of plant genetics resources is a pressing and permanent need and that therefore the resources allocated to the relevant funding mechanisms should be substantial and sustainable. This important issue will have to be considered in the light of the UNCED process and of the decisions at the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development on funding mechanisms for the channelling of new and additional financial resources in particular to the developing countries as well as of the financial mechanism of the future Convention on Biodiversity.
It is quite clear that funding should not only be provided in support of in situ and ex situ conservation of plant genetic resources. Programmes on plant breeding and seed production, particularly in the developing countries, must also receive adequate funding. The build-up of the capacity of the developing countries for plant breeding, making use of modern technologies, is of the greatest importance in their efforts to achieve sustainable agriculture and food security. It should be actively supported by the relevant funding mechanisms, including through the transfer of technology on concessional terms.
In the preparations for the UN Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) crucial decisions on conservation and sustainable utilization of plant genetic resources are being negotiated. This is being done in the Preparatory Committee of UNCED through Agenda 21, the great Programme of Action of Rio de Janeiro, and in the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee for a Convention on Biological Diversity that will cover both wild and domesticated species including plant genetic resources. The decisions at UNCED on biological diversity and plant genetic resources will have a major bearing on the future work to make the Global System on Conservation and Sustainable Utilization of Plant Genetic Resources fully operational.
The Commission on Plant Genetic Resources is the only permanent intergovernmental body in the UN system addressing a large portion of the world's biological diversity. Close considerations should be given to the utilization of this body and of the global system on conservation and use of plant genetic resources - including of course the Undertaking - in the implementation of both a convention on biological diversity and the provisions of Agenda 21 on plant genetic resources and biological diversity. This is of particular importance where the conservation and use of biological diversity for sustainable agriculture and rural development are concerned. These considerations should embrace also the institutional arrangements - the role of the components of the System in the institutional follow-up. The Director-General should be asked to convey the above to the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee for a Convention on Biological Diversity and to the fourth session of the Preparatory Committee of UNCED.
There is a need for FAO to prepare itself to take appropriate action to implement decisions at UNCED on this issue as a matter of urgency. Steps should therefore, in the view of the Swedish delegation, be taken to prepare for the holding of the next session of the Commission prior to the 1992 FAO Council in November of next year, in order to progress toward early implementation of UNCED decisions on biodiversity and plant genetic resources. This session might be an extraordinary session, provided financial means will be available, including from extrabudgetary resources.
Jung Sup CHOI (Korea, Republic of): As a member country in the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources and a country which also adhered to the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources, the Korean Government fully supports FAO's various pioneering activities in conserving and developing plant genetic resources.
The Korean delegation supports the view that plant genetic resources are important resources for the use of all mankind. Plant genetic resources should be conserved for future generations and made available for scientific purposes for all nations.
The Korean delegation concurs in the agreement by both Commission and Council that it was premature to transform the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources into a binding legal agreement at this stage.
I believe that FAO, in cooperation with other international organizations, including UNEP and UNICEF, should reinforce its programmes and activities on the conservation and use of plant genetic resources in less developed
member countries. Furthermore, in order to facilitate technological transfers, the establishment of training programmes for the scientists of developing countries should be considered.
Turning now to a more specific issue, the Korean delegation supports the Draft International Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collection and Transfer in document C 91/24, page C3. I would like to emphasize, however, as is explicitly presented in the Proposed Chapter II, Article 3.1, that the Code should be based on voluntary participation. Again, the Korean delegation endorses the Draft Code and extends its gratitude to the FAO Secretariat and the Agriculture Department for the preparation of the Draft, in spite of substantial difficulties.
CHAIRMAN (Original language Arabic): Thank you very much, we have listened with great interest to the points that you have made regarding the fact that it should not be of a compulsory nature.
A. FEBERWEE (Netherlands): The present document provides an excellent summary of the stage reached in the debate on conservation of plant genetic resources. The Netherlands has a large and active plant breeding and seed production industry. Plant genetic resources form the basic raw material of plant breeding and clearly the Netherlands has therefore not just an interest but also a responsibility in contributing to conservation of this natural resource. The Netherlands is well aware that it owes much to plant genetic resources collected in various centres of diversity which are mainly located in the tropics and sub-tropics. In return, the Netherlands has contributed technology and improved varieties which, under Plant Breeders' Right legislation, are freely available for further breeding without restrictions. In addition, the Centre of Plant Genetic Resources in the Netherlands contributes to conservation of genetic diversity, and its collections are without restrictions available to other genebanks and crop improvement programmes the world over, adhering to the FAO Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources and the IBPGR programme.
The Netherlands delegation is satisfied with the progress made by the FAO Commission and its Working Group. It is especially pleased with the increasingly constructive nature of its deliberations. It has also noted with satisfaction the present good relationships with the IBPGR.
At the previous meeting of the Council the Netherlands has, in principle, expressed its agreement with the need for an International Financing Mechanism to provide adequate and sustainable funding for plant genetic resources conservation. Any global mechanism designed to promote political and policy oversight, mobilization and distribution of funds, and implementation of well-defined tasks should fulfil a number of basic criteria: In the first place, it should have the confidence of all countries which are important repositories of plant genetic resources; secondly, it should inspire support from contributors of germplasm, information, funds and technology; and thirdly, it should be capable of ensuring effective, economic and timely implementation of approved programmes.
Plant genetic resources are part of the overall biodiversity issue. At the UN Conference on Environment and Development to be held in Brazil in 1992 this issue will be one of the major topics. The creation of an FAO International Fund for plant genetic resources will be considered positively. Allow me, however, in this context to remind you of the existence of the Global Environmental Facility, which also deals with the conservation of biological diversity. Good coordination between the two fronts should be promoted.
The Netherlands delegation is in general agreement with the Draft International Code of Conduct for Plant Genetic Resources Collecting and Transfer. It wants to stress that the code should promote rather than restrict collecting activities. In practice, collecting activities of the Dutch Genebank are already adhering to the present Draft Code. There may be a need to differentiate between different objectives of collecting. Some collection activities are narrowly targeted to finding specific characters of direct relevance to on-going breeding programmes. Others are carried out as part of international programmes, amongst others under the aegis of IBPGR to sample overall genetic diversity for the purpose of conservation per se and thus for the benefit of all potential users. Such different objectives may require somewhat different rules and regulations to be reflected in the proposed code.
The Netherlands agrees with the rationale provided for a Fourth International Technical Conference on plant genetic resources. It expects that, whatever the outcome of UNCED 1992, such a technical conference will be needed to move internationalization of plant genetic resources' conservation forward and help the Commission in achieving some of its objectives.
Let me conclude by saying that the Netherlands wants to express its appreciation to the Secretariat of the Commission for the good and thorough documentation it has provided.
Ali ERYILMAZ (Turkey): I would like to express the thanks of my delegation to Dr de Haen for his clear and precise introduction of the agenda item under discussion. I would also like to express our appreciation of FAO for its valuable support to the activities on the conservation and utilization of plant genetic resources, especially in developing countries. The Turkish delegation would like to emphasize FAO's very important role in the establishment of the Global Network of Plant Genetic Resources and its efforts to reach wider adherence to the Undertaking and wider acceptability of the system.
We fully agree with the objectives of the Global System on Plant Genetic Resources, developed by the Organization since 1983.
Turkey is listed among the countries which adhered to the international Undertaking and became a member of the Commission. Consequently we felt the need to bring our national and international activities under discipline, in view of the fact that Turkey is one of the most important countries on genetic resources. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs has prepared a set of rules and regulations with due consideration of the views stated in document C 91/24. According to the Regulation for the Collection, Conservation and Utilization of Plant Genetic Resources in Turkey,
priorities have been given to selected plant groups, areas and international organizations.
The Turkish delegation also supports the views and activities on ex situ Conservation and Networking and in situ Protected Areas and Networking, and considers them to be a positive progress. By these networking arrangements for in situ conservation of plant genetic resources, all ecosystems as well as plant groups including forest trees and genetic resources will be protected by establishing protected areas where the plant species will be evaluated and selected ones will be protected in their own environment. In this way, plant species will be inherited by future generations within their respective ecosystems.
In Appendix B of the document C 91/24, the Draft Conference Resolution Annex 3 to the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources is well thought out and prepared. However, we would like to propose a minor change in wording. On page B2 the last line of paragraph 3 mentions "Third World". Instead of this, usage of "developing countries" will be more suitable in terms of clarity.
My delegation considers the Draft International Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collecting and Transfer given in Appendix C a well-prepared guideline and offers its appreciation for the work done. This Code will hopefully serve as a point of reference to many individual countries for the establishment of their own codes.
I would like to conclude by saying that my delegation endorses the Draft Resolution contained in C 91/24. We are also pleased to give our approval to the convening of the Fourth International Technical Conference on Plant Genetic Resources.
CHAIRMAN (Original language Arabic) : I think the amendment you have proposed can be supported by everyone.
E. Wayne DENNEY (United States of America): Mr de Haen has provided an excellent overview to commence discussion of this item. Many of the issues highlighted in the document before us have been addressed at length in other FAO fora during the past year. Thus, as you suggested, Mr Chairman, most of our attention can be devoted to the matters requiring decision by the Conference.
The Draft Resolution to further amend the International Undertaking has the support of my Government. We participated fully as it was being formulated by the Working Group of the Commission and subsequently refined during the June Council. It contains clauses which are important to both developing and developed countries. The importance of national sovereignty to member countries is clearly evident.
The United States believes unrestricted access is also an important issue that must be identified in the Resolution as a matter requiring further clarification. Funding is always a delicate issue, and the Resolution before us merely notes the importance of resource flows to enable plant genetic resources to be effectively conserved and utilized. The fragile
balance in the Resolution can be undone by any attempt to modify it. We hope the Conference will adopt it.
The United States has provided the Secretariat with a number of general and specific comments on the Draft Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collecting and Transfer. They are too numerous to repeat here. Some of them simply request word additions, deletions or substitutions, but others would require more substantial modification. For example, in paragraphs 1.7 to 1.9 we believe too much attention is given to benefits and not enough mention is made of the costs involved. As we have indicated previously, the United States prefers the term "guidelines" instead of "code of conduct".
In view of the magnitude of our own comments on the Draft before us, we suggest that the Commission's Working Group tries to reconcile the various comments members may have on the Draft rather than having the Conference act upon it.
If we can turn briefly to other issues raised in the document, paragraph 8 states that "The Commission functions on the basis of one country, one vote". We would ask, does the Commission act differently from other FAO committees? We do not recall any votes having been taken during Commission sessions. It has operated by consensus as far as we can remember.
Paragraph 15 indicates that one of the most important tasks of the Commission is the development of international agreements. Global prescriptions are not always the best medicine. Focusing on individual country and regional issues is also very important.
The United States supports the timely preparation of the Report entitled State of the World's Plant Genetic Resources. Discussion of regional plant genetic resource issues during the 1992 FAO Regional Conferences can contribute to this Report. Both the Report and regional discussions can provide a solid basis for convening the Fourth International Technical Conference on Plant Genetic Resources, probably in early 1994. The Technical Conference may also be important in determining how FAO can best follow up the results of the 1992 UNCED. We support the steps outlined in Appendix D to prepare for the Conference. Much needs to be done in the plant genetic resource area in the next few years. The Commission and its Working Group should play a vital part in this process; thus, no consideration should be given to widening the mandate of the Commission until after the next International Technical Conference is convened.
The United States has enjoyed representing North America on the Working Group of the Commission since. we joined the Commission in 1990. We look forward to continuing that involvement during the next biennium. It is important to have a Working Group which can adequately perform technical reviews on a wide variety of issues between Commission sessions.
Finally, we are in complete accord with the preparation of "insightful" proposals made by the delegate of Sweden.
CHAIRMAN (Original language Arabic): I would agree with the points you have made concerning the draft before us, because any amendment in addition to it at this stage in our work might create all sorts of difficulties which we might not be able to cope with at this time.
With regard to the Turkish amendment, it is really a very simple proposal, as you have heard. It is just a matter of changing one particular term in order to align that text with the normal position of developing countries.
Magnar SUNDFOR (Norway) : On behalf of our delegation, I would like to express our appreciation of the fact that the question of the conservation and utilization of plant genetic resources has been given attention in the overall work of FAO. We appreciate the progress made by FAO in establishing a global system for plant genetic resources.
The Fourth Session of the Commission for Plant Genetic Resources considered a Draft Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collecting and Transfer. The Norwegian delegation thinks that the Draft Code of Conduct provides the guidance needed and gives the required support for the protection of both collectors and donors of germplasm. The Code is voluntary, but carries a strong message to governments, organizations, institutions and individuals involved in collection and transfer of germplasm. Therefore, we find the Draft Code of Conduct complies with requirements in the field and can give it our full support. Nevertheless, we wish to stress that the Code of Conduct must be followed up in the light of the UNCED decisions.
At the Ninety-ninth Session of the Council in June 1991, a Draft Resolution intended to be included as the third annex to the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources was discussed. However, some delegations had reservations and it was decided to establish a Working Group to analyse the nature of the reservations. We would like to thank the Working Group for the work done in resolving the matter. Our delegation considers the proposed Resolution is well balanced, and we can support it. In this connection we would underline the fact that the Resolution must be followed up in the context of the UNCED process.
The document presents in paragraphs 19-22 the various mechanisms for the conservation of genetic variations and the conservation of sustainable use of genetic variations. These are of high priority for my Government. At national, regional and international level we support the work on the conservation of plant genetic resources. This is done through participation in the Nordic genebank, through participation in the financing of a regional genebank for the SADCC countries, and support to the IBPGR and FAO, as well as participation in various other multilateral fora.
A couple of years ago, IBPGR and FAO approached the Norwegian Government regarding the possibilities of using permafrost conditions for security storage of germplasm collections. Norway has considered this request positively. My delegation, therefore, hopes that both developing and developed countries intend to benefit from the SIS.
Conservation for the future benefit of species carrying valuable traits is important. The convening of the Technical Conference on Plant Genetic Resources would therefore be a good idea. FAO should prepare for such a Conference the first State of the World's Plant Genetic Resources and a Global Plan of Action.
My delegation supports the suggestion from the Swedish delegation that close consideration should be given to the utilization of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources and of the global system on conservation of plant
genetic resources in the implementation of both a convention on biological diversity and the provisions of Agenda Item 21 on plant genetic resources. We also give our support to the suggestion that consideration be given to holding an extraordinary session of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources in 1992.
CHAIRMAN (Original language Arabic) : As I have an appointment which was made a little while ago, with the permission of the Commission I will hand over the chairmanship to the delegate of Peru who is one of the Vice-Chairmen.
Manuel Vara Ochoa. Vice-Chairman of Commission I. took the chair.
Manuel Vara Ochoa. Vice-Président de la Commission I. assume la présidence.
Ocupa la presidencia Manuel Vara Ochoa. Vicepresidente de la Comisión I.
EL PRESIDENTE: Siguiendo la discusión del importante tema sobre la conservación y utilización de los recursos fitogenéticos de gran trascendencia dentro de lo que es la seguridad alimentaria, me es muy grato dar la palabra al representante de Madagascar.
Raphaël RABE (Madagascar): Ma délégation est heureuse de vous voir à la présidence pour l'examen de ce point important de l'ordre du jour. Permettez-nous de remercier le Secrétariat pour la production du document C 91/24 riche en informations. Nous félicitons également M. De Haen pour sa présentation très claire du sujet.
La délégation malgache se félicite de l'adhésion de plus en plus importante d'Etats Membres de l'Organisation à la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques et à l'engagement international sur les ressources phytogénétiques. Cela dénote l'intérêt qu'ils portent à ce sujet vital pour une agriculture durable et performante, comme l'a précisé si justement la délégation de la Suède.
Madagascar est membre du Groupe de travail sur les ressources phyto-génétiques et, à ce titre, n'a ménagé aucun effort pour promouvoir l'adhésion de tous les Etats Membres de la FAO. Il peut être fier de partager avec les autres membres du Groupe de travail le mérite d'avoir obtenu les résultats encourageants enregistrés aujourd'hui. Bien entendu, nous sommes disposés à conforter ces résultats et à oeuvrer pour que les pays qui n'ont pas encore adhéré au mécanisme le fassent bientôt.
Quelques commentaires à l'endroit du document et des propositions qui y figurent: nous faisons nôtres toutes les propositions et recommandations formulées dans ledit document mais, en particulier, celles relatives au Fonds international pour les ressources phytogénétiques (paragraphe 13 du document). Les justifications concernant ce Fonds sont également données aux paragraphes 29 à 32 du document. Nous sommes convaincus que les donateurs seront encouragés à participer au Fonds car il est démontré que c'est une nécessité si nous voulons aller de l'avant.
A relever que le fonds devra être substantiel, durable et respecter les principes d'équité et de transparence dans ce secteur.
Cependant, ma délégation voudrait attirer l'attention de cette auguste assemblée sur les dispositions pertinentes du paragraphe 18. Le Conseil a demandé au Secrétariat de préparer un projet de Code de conduite sur les biotechnologies. Ma délégation voudrait savoir à quel niveau se trouve ladite préparation et souhaiterait, si vous le permettez, que l'on ajoute un point 5 au paragraphe 43 relatif à ce sujet libellé comme suit:
"Approuve la Recommandation du Conseil sur la préparation d'un projet de Code de conduite sur les biotechnologies."
Enfin, ma délégation donne son appui aux deux projets de résolution relatifs d'une part à l'engagement international sur les ressources phytogénétiques et, d'autre part au Code international de conduite pour la collecte et le transfert du matériel phytogénétique.
Bien entendu, nous sommes favorables à la tenue de la quatrième Conférence technique internationale sur les ressources phytogénétiques et souhaitons que des facilités soient accordées aux pays en voie de développement pour leur permettre une participation conséquente. Nous joignons notre voix à celle de M. de Haen pour lancer un appel auprès des donateurs pour le financement des travaux de la Conférence.
EL PRESIDENTE: Agradecemos las interesantes sugerencias del Representante de Madagascar en relación a la asistencia de los países en vías de desarrollo a la próxima Conferencia.
Muy amable por sus expresiones.
Mirza Tasadduq BEG (Bangladesh) : At the outset I thank the Secretariat for the excellent progress report in document C 91/24.
My delegation is pleased to note that the urgent need for conservation and promotion of unrestricted availability and sustainable utilization of plant resources for present and future generations has received the attention and endorsement of at least 128 Member Nations of FAO. Protection of plant germplasm for future generations and its availability for scientific purposes have far-reaching implications in the protection of the environment and sustainable agricultural development.
My delegation appreciates the active role that FAO has been playing towards developing, in cooperation with Member Nations, the global system of plant genetic resources. We would also like to record our appreciation and support to the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources for the very good and substantive work that it has so far done in collaboration and close coordination with various national, regional and international organizations dealing with plant genetic resources on a sustainable basis.
My delegation is strongly of the opinion that the efforts of FAO, the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources, and other international organizations must not suffer due to funding constraints. The International Fund for Plant Genetic Resources should have all the support it needs for
the implementation of the principles contained in the International Undertaking that was established by Resolution 8/83 of the Twenty-second Session of the FAO Conference. We also support the idea of preparing a periodic report on the State of the World's Plant Genetic Resources, as mentioned in paragraph 25 of the document, which would cover all aspects of activities and programmes being carried out by regional, international and other non-governmental organizations.
Bangladesh, the largest delta in the world, has been bestowed with rich vegetation. Abundant year-round solar radiation, lowland tropical environment and high humidity throughout the year have rendered Bangladesh rich in photosensitive and photoneutral herbs and trees. The frequent devastating floods, tidal waves and cyclones damage and wash away not only our crops but also many other non-crop wild species of plants. The impact of this has not only led to the erosion of genetic diversities of plant species, but also to the extinction and threat to many animal species. However, the threat is more serious for plants than for animals. We might have already lost many species of plants and hundreds of germplasms.
We can hardly overemphasize our concern for the collection, conservation and evaluation of germplasm, not only of cultivated crops and their wild relatives, but also of non-crop plant species. We must find ways to preserve our plant species along with their genetic diversity for future use within the country, as well as worldwide. We need help and assistance from all quarters, the FAO, the IBPGR and all other organizations and donor agencies. It is not in the interests of Bangladesh alone; it is in the interest of all generations of mankind to come.
As a member of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources and among the countries adhering to the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources, Bangladesh fully supports the Draft International Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collecting and Transfer, and calls upon the Conference to adopt it. We also strongly support the recommendations of the Commission and the Council for convening the Fourth International Technical Conference on Plant Genetic Resources.
EL PRESIDENTE: Le agradecemos, señor Representante de Bangladesh, por sus inquietudes presentadas en relación con este tema.
Praphas WEERAPAT (Thailand): The Thailand delegation would like to express its appreciation to the FAO for its efforts in the coordinating role of conservation, availability and sustainable utilization of plant genetic resources, including its coordination with the IBPGR and the CGIAR.
Our delegation also recognizes the need for a global system for planning and action, as contained in document C 91/24. Consequently, the Thai delegation would like to thank the Secretariat, especially the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources and its Working Group, for their intensive work.
The Commission on Plant Genetic Resources proposed a draft resolution with regard to the questions raised in paragraph 11 of the document concerning: 1, the availability of plant breeders' lines; 2, the implementation of farmers' rights; and 3, the sovereign rights over plant genetic resources.
The Thai delegation has considered these questions and would like to make the following comments.
For the global system, especially its function and structure as shown in Figures 1 and 2 of the document, the Thai delegation would like to support the proposed function and structure, but they should be further elaborated in technical terms.
Consequently, the Thai delegation supports FAO convening the Fourth International Technical Conference on Plant Genetic Resources to follow on the three previous conferences convened by FAO in 1967, 1973 and 1981.
The draft resolution as proposed in the Appendix B of the document, the Thai delegation would like to support this, but for the International Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collecting and Transfer, as attached to the document, which covered a wide range of commitment that my government would like to take further considerations in some aspects, especially in the legal term.
EL PRESIDENTE: Hemos tomado nota, señor Representante de Tailandia a través de la Secretaria, de sus inquietudes sobre el Código de Conducta Internacional.
Ms Heather AMYS (Canada) : Canada would like to thank Dr de Haen for his informative introduction to this very important agenda item. The document before us reflects the enormity and complexity of the important challenge of preservation and wise use of our genetic resources.
Canada is pleased to have become one of the one hundred-and-eleven countries that have joined the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources and as such, we endorse, in general, the outcome of the fourth session of the commission reported in document C 91/24.
Clearly, the commission has made significant progress in solving various issues where there has been a divergence of opinion, as now, one hundred-and-three countries have signed the international undertaking on plant genetic resources. However, Canada does not yet find itself in a position to sign this undertaking. In 1988, we outlined four obstacles to our acceptance; the potential duplication of work done by the International Board on Plant Genetic Resources; uncertainty about international standards for gene banks; the need to protect lines being used in plant breeding; and finally, the need to ensure unrestricted access to preserved genetic resources.
We welcomed the signing of the memorandum of understanding on programme cooperation between FAO and the IBPGR early in 1990, as this removed the first two of these obstacles. Passage of the draft resolution before this Conference would alleviate our third concern about breeder's lines. We therefore fully support the resolution as it stands, with the amendment proposed by Turkey.
The final obstacle to Canadian acceptance of the undertaking stems from our conviction that the relevance of the undertaking hinges upon the need for international agreement on acceptable terms of access to plant genetic
resources. We believe that it is implicit that countries have sovereignty over the resources found in their territories. The undertaking needs to go one step further - to focus these rights in a common direction - a direction which recognizes the common heritage of mankind. The international exchange of genetic resources is only possible when the countries involved have agreement of conditions for access. This undertaking should, in our opinion, provide internationally agreed upon guidelines on conditions for access. That, as the draft resolution before us recognizes, is the challenge that remains ahead for the commission on plant genetic resources.
Canada welcomes the preparation of an international code of conduct for plant germplasm collection and transfer. We have, though been unsuccessful in obtaining a thorough analysis from our experts, as we only just received the revised text upon our arrival in Rome. We are pleased to see a new and improved draft before us, and in the interest of expediting the important work in this field, we are prepared to endorse, in principle, the provisions of this Code.
Canada favours the convening of the fourth international technical conference on plant genetic resources, planned for late 1993 or 1994. We look forward to further information on the proposed content and objectives of the conference, and are prepared to cooperate in facilitating its preparation. We agree with the need to review the state of the world's plant genetic resources and to develop a global action plan on Plant Genetic Resources. In our view, these activities are integral to the preparations for the technical conference.
As members of both the Commission and the Council, we endorse the recommendation that urgent studies be undertaken to identify, and to propose solutions to possible dangers to germplasm in the countries particularly those of central and Eastern Europe. This occurrence underlines the need for the Global Early Warning System for Plant Genetic Resources which is supposed to address situations such as this one, and which has been in the Commission plan for a number of years.
Much work remains to be done in order to conserve plant genetic resources adequately. The creation of an international fund for Plant Genetic Resources is a credible way to generate money to support genetic resources work, and to "compensate traditional farming societies". However, we feel it would have been useful to specify in document C 91/24, for the members of the Conference, the voluntary nature of the fund, and also to provide more information on the use of the monies in this fund. We believe that the establishment of a transparent and scientifically based project selection, management and monitoring system would attract more contributions to this international fund.
It is well known that UNEP is endeavouring to produce a draft of a global convention on biological diversity in time for the 1992 UN Conference on the environment and development. There are clearly important linkages between the global biodiversity convention and FAO's global system on plant genetic resources. There is general agreement on the need for a international instrument to conserve and protect biodiversity. A workable system of genetic exchanges world-wide is important to the continued research and development of agriculture, food and other biological resources. Current arrangements are ad hoc and different for plants,
animals and micro-organisms. The UNEP biodiversity convention negotiations are leading to a rationalization of the approach. Canada is therefore pleased to note that FAO has made available to UNEP and to the UNCED Secretariat, reports on the global system on PGR. We also welcome the participation of the FAO staff member in the Secretariat of the International Negotiating Committee on Biodiversity. And, we encourage FAO to provide Member Nations with further information about his participation - the extent, the role, the objectives, and so forth.
In closing Canada would like to express our appreciation for the statement of Sweden and we fully support their proposals regarding the role of the FAO generally, and the Commission on PGR specifically, in the preparations and the follow-up to the UN Conference on Environment and Development.
We also concur with the proposal to convene a commission on Plant Genetic Resources in the fall of 1992.
EL PRESIDENTE: Agradecemos las opiniones de la Representante de Canadá, referente a la interacción de los recursos fitogenéticos y biodiversidad.
La Secretaria ha tomado nota, también, de sus inquietudes en relación con el Código de Conducta.
Tiene la palabra el Representante de España.
José Miguel BOLIVAR SALCEDO (España): Primeramente, señor Presidente, mi delegación agradece al Dr. de Haen la presentación que ha hecho al tema, concisa y clara. Asimismo felicita también al Secretariado por el documento C 91/24 que une, a la virtud de ser breve, el recoger perfectamente los progresos realizados en el establecimiento del Sistema Mundial de la FAO para la Conservación y Utilización de los Recursos Fitogenéticos.
España viene expresando con continuidad en este foro su preocupación por la necesidad de salvaguardar los recursos fitogenéticos para que puedan ser utilizados de una forma equitativa en beneficio de las generaciones presentes y futuras. Ha expresado también su convencimiento de que este objetivo sólo puede alcanzarse mediante los esfuerzos y el respaldo conjugados de la comunidad internacional.
Durante el vigésimo periodo de sesiones de la Conferencia, en 1979, año en que España ostentaba su presidencia, la delegación española propuso crear una red internacional de bancos de genes bajo los auspicios de la FAO para asegurar la conservación de los recursos fitogenéticos y su disponibilidad para beneficio de todos los países. Esta idea, recogida y apoyada por otras delegaciones, fue germen que ha ido tomando cuerpo y perfeccionándose en los sucesivos periodos de sesiones de la Conferencia hasta llegar al actual sistema global.
Ha sido una labor colectiva en la que ha destacado, justo es recordarlo, el denodado esfuerzo de algunas delegaciones, en particular de América Latina, y de modo especial la delegación de México, que abanderó en momentos difíciles el establecimiento de este sistema mundial.
Desde 1979 la delegación española ha venido apoyando numerosas e importantes iniciativas que se han ido generando hasta alcanzar la configuración que hoy tiene el Sistema Mundial de Recursos Fitogenéticos de la FAO con una participación que, creo, sin pecar de inmodestia, puede calificarse de muy activa en todos los debates que han tenido lugar durante este transcurso de años, tanto en la Comisión de Recursos Fitogenéticos y su Grupo de Trabajo como en el Consejo, cuando ha habido lugar, y en la Conferencia.
Ha cabido a mi delegación el honor de que un español ocupase la presidencia en la Comisión y la vicepresidencia primera.
España, en colaboración con la FAO, viene organizando una serie de cursos de capacitación para América Latina sobre recursos fitogenéticos y producción de semillas. El próximo, que se celebrará en la Argentina, es el sexto o el séptimo que se imparte.
Digo todo esto como demostración de una trayectoria que puede facilitar la comprensión de la posición de mi delegación ante los asuntos que se someten a la consideración de esta Conferencia.
En relación con el primero de ellos, el proyecto de resolución que el Consejo acordó presentar a la Conferencia, mi delegación apoya su aprobación, con la enmienda propuesta por Turquía, por ser un compromiso obtenido a través de mucho diálogo y buena voluntad de las partes interesadas y aunque la fórmula adoptada quizás no sea la que hubiera preferido cada uno.
Respecto al Código Internacional de Conducta para la recolección y transparencia de germoplasma vegetal, mi delegación está de acuerdo con el espíritu y su contenido, pero considera que podría mejorarse la forma, puesto que en algunos puntos puede resultar repetitivo y, en la traducción española al menos, el lenguaje puede mejorarse.
Sin embargo, la delegación española manifiesta su interés por que, a ser posible, el Código de Conducta sea aprobado por la Conferencia y por que no se demore su aprobación dos años más. Pero hemos visto que alguna otra delegación tiene también observaciones al respecto, y si ello supone dificultades para su aprobación en su redacción actual, propondríamos que, si existe la posibilidad, se cree un grupo de contacto dentro de esta Comisión que permita alcanzar un consenso antes de someter el Código a la Plenaria.
Con referencia a la propuesta de que la FAO convoque la Cuarta Conferencia Técnica Internacional sobre los Recursos Fitogenéticos, mi delegación desea declarar lo siguiente: El Gobierno español considera del máximo interés la celebración de esta Cuarta Conferencia Técnica Internacional y está estudiando la forma en que puede materializar su apoyo, si bien, antes de concretar su compromiso, espera conocer en qué medida otros países, y en particular otros países miembros de la Comunidad Europea, comparten este interés.
De todos modos, puedo adelantar que, en la medida de nuestras posibilidades, se dispondrá ya de una cierta suma para 1992, que en su momento se comunicará al Secretariado, para aplicarla a las actividades
preparatorias de la Conferencia Técnica, preferiblemente para aquéllas relacionadas con América Latina y el Caribe.
Finalmente, la delegación española verá con sumo agrado que la FAO realice estudios para identificar los peligros que amenazan a la conservación de los recursos fitogenéticos en distintos países y que haga las propuestas pertinentes de solución.
EL PRESIDENTE: Agradecemos las enaltecedoras palabras del señor Representante de España, así como el aporte técnico, el aporte de capacitación y los recursos dentro de un tema de trascendental importancia.
Srta. Martha VAZQUEZ (México): Permítanme felicitar al Sr. de Haen por la excelente exposición del documento C 91/24, el cual contiene la evolución y componentes del sistema mundial de FAO sobre recursos fitogenéticos, así como propuestas de interés para mi país.
La delegación mexicana reconoce la labor y los esfuerzos que ha realizado el equipo de la FAO en esta materia para desarrollar un sistema mundial único de recursos fitogenéticos, que contiene el Compromiso Internacional, la Comisión de Recursos Fitogenéticos y el Fondo Internacional. En este sentido, la delegación mexicana, después de haber analizado cuidadosamente el proyecto de resolución contenido en el Apéndice B del documento que nos ocupa, considera que se puede convertir en el tercer anexo del Compromiso Internacional, considera que la cuestión de soberanía sobre los recursos fitogenéticos está correctamente tratada.
Sin embargo, se considera que es necesario seguir analizando dos elementos de la misma resolución, las condiciones de acceso a los recursos, en la cual mi delegación apreciaría que se acepte la idea de un acceso regulado a los recursos fitogenéticos por el país originario; y, segunda, que en el punto cuarto de la parte operativa, relativo al Fondo, al cual se debería señalar la cantidad, así como su carácter: si éste sería involuntario u obligatorio, a efectos de lograr que los países en desarrollo cuenten con la facilidad para la conservación y regeneración de los recursos fitogenéticos.
Por otra parte, y en relación al Código de Conducta, mi delegación considera que es un texto valioso que podría servir de guía necesaria para las actividades que desempeñan los países en desarrollo en esta materia, no obstante haber expresado en su momento la necesidad de que se incluyera la reafirmación de la soberanía de los Estados sobre los recursos fitogenéticos y que se excluyera el término de "custodia", a pesar de que el Código no es vinculante.
Asimismo, nuestra delegación reconoce el carácter voluntario del Código y que las medidas prácticas, técnicas y administrativas previstas en él constituyen una práctica normal. La delegación de mi país considera de gran importancia dicho Código, toda vez que para México resulta importante que se pueda contar con un instrumento para los recolectores internacionales de germoplasma vegetal, ya que, por ser el centro de origen de un grupo importante de especies vegetales y animales, somos objeto, en ocasiones, de continuas presiones hacia nuestros recursos fitogenéticos por los recolectores internacionales.
Por lo que respecta a la propuesta de convocar a la Cuarta Conferencia Técnica Internacional sobre la conservación y utilización de los recursos fitogenéticos, cuyo costo se estima en tres billones de dólares, pudiéndose financiar con contribuciones extrapresupuestales, la delegación mexicana apoya la misma y hace un llamado a los miembros de la Conferencia para aprobar la celebración de dicha Conferencia a fines de 1993. Igualmente considera que la celebración de la Conferencia después de la Conferencia de Naciones Unidas sobre Medio Ambiente y Desarrollo daría oportunidad de instrumentar sus decisiones en programas con una base técnica sólida para prestar asistencia decisiva a los países en desarrollo y proteger el medio ambiente.
Para concluir, señor Presidente, a la delegación mexicana no le queda clara la integración del pequeño grupo especial de expertos a que hace referencia, que, según entiende mi delegación, se avocará la preparación del estado de los recursos fitogenéticos en el mundo y el plan de acción respectivo, por lo que solicita atentamente a la Secretaría nos aclare esto.
EL PRESIDENTE: Agradecemos las opiniones de México. La Secretaria ha tomado conocimiento de su inquietud en relación al pequeño grupo de expertos.
Kiyoshi SAWADA (Japan): My delegation would like to congratulate Dr de Haen on his clear introduction of the paper. My country became a member of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources in March of this year and has committed itself further to contributing to the activities in this field as a member of the Commission. We are not yet in a position to adhere to other International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources because my country is not completely convinced on the issue of farmers' rights and breeders' rights, although there has been significant progress on this issue.
My delegation would like to comment on each item presented by the Secretariat. First, regarding the Draft Conference Resolution Annex 3 in Appendix B, we would like to make clear the expected role of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources in the fifth paragraph of the points on page B2, and also the identification of the appropriate bodies in the same paragraph. We would appreciate being consulted on the members of this body as well as the advice procedure.
Second, regarding the proposed Code of Conduct, Appendix C, we also have some comments. My Government considers that the exchange of genetic resources should not be controlled uniformly because the system of genetic resource conservation now varies among the nations. Therefore, we would like to request that the Code of Conduct remains a voluntary one. However, in the case of Japan, we would like to treat the question of plant genetic collection case by case, not based on a Code of Conduct.
It is understandable to my country that the Code of Conduct mentions that plant genetic resources are such valuable common assets of mankind that they should be protected from reckless collection in the host country. In particular, it has also been our guideline to provide the host country with duplicate sets of all samples. However, given the existing condition of genetic resource conservation in every country, which is quite different, the uniform application of this Code of Conduct would give rise to
problems. It is obvious that the advantage of double conservation, both in collector and host country, could not be effective without proper facilities for seed storage being available in the host countries.
My Government has cooperated in building seed storage facilities for plant genetic resources as well as providing technical cooperation in many countries such as Bangladesh, Chile, Myanmar, Suriname, Thailand, and so on.
My Government has great anxiety about this proposed Code of Conduct. We are anxious that too strict or rigorous a code and duties may hamper the established international system of plant genetic conservation and its use.
Plant genetic collection organized on a governmental base is characterized as an academic research activity and plays a role in research cooperation as well as in the exchange of information between two nations. In this sense, their constructive activities should not be hampered by this Code of Conduct.
Regarding the Fourth International Conference cited in Appendix B, my Government is pleased to participate fully.
EL PRESIDENTE: En relación a su inquietud sobre el proyecto de resolución y código de conducta, ha tomado nota la Secretaria.
Bernardo PALESTINI (Italy): Mr Chairman, my delegation has examined with interest the documents put before us by the Secretariat; we think this is a very important matter. I am pleased to announce that my country, which was already a member of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources and of its Working Group, has now signed the International Undertaking so that it can fully join in the work of the FAO Global System for the Conservation and Utilization of Plant Genetic Resources.
The Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm and Transfer is also an essential tool for promoting and developing plant genetic resources and will enable governments and institutions to exchange germplasm more rapidly and on a safe basis. We also think that special attention must be given to the networks of ex situ conservation of plant genetic resources. We also look forward to the Fourth International Technical Conference and stress the need for a wide consultation between FAO and other international and national organizations on this particular subject.
Carlos BASCO (Argentina): Con relación al documento C 91/24, la delegación argentina desea hacer las siguientes consideraciones: primera, la negociación actual del Convenio sobre biodiversidad procura asegurar, entre otros aspectos, el acceso regulado a recursos genéticos sujeto al acuerdo entre partes y legislación nacional, la soberanía del Estado sobre los recursos y los beneficios derivados de aplicación de la tecnologia a esos recursos para países de origen del material genético. Dentro de ese marco, mi delegación apoya iniciativas dirigidas a asegurar la conservación e intercambio de recursos fitogenéticos dentro del sistema mundial. Sin embargo, no parece conveniente aceptar, lisa y llanamente, el criterio
expresado en el 2.1, párrafo 5, que dice: "... y fomentar disponibilidad sin restricciones ...".
En el párrafo 1 del Artículo 2.1 se considera también importante reconocer tanto los derechos del obtentor como los del agricultor. Ambos deben ser conpensados. En ese sentido, el proyecto del Apéndice B parece aclarar y reconocer puntos de particular importancia.
Los párrafos 29 y 30 relativos a "financiación del plan de acción mundial mediante la aplicación de derechos del agricultor", reconocen que quienes están haciendo biotecnología necesitan germoplasma, y se compensa a los agricultores. Esto parece una buena solución, que podría tomarse en negociación del Convenio sobre biodiversidad.
Con respecto al Código internacional de conducta para recolección y transferencia de germoplasma vegetal, el proyecto del Apéndice C requeriría mayor estudio antes de la adopción. En principio, no podrían aceptarse expresiones como "custodios de recursos fitogenéticos silvestres", enunciadas en el Artículo 1o , puntos 8 y 9 y Artículo 2.1. Se trata de propietarios o usuarios de recursos y no "custodios".
Asimismo, el Artículo 2.9 señala qué derechos de los agricultores se confieren a la comunidad internacional. En ambos casos, parece subyacer el concepto de patrimonio común de la humanidad que debió ser aclarado en repetidas ocasiones.
Los Artículos 4.2 y 5.1 deberían señalar, ante todo, la necesidad de acuerdo con las leyes nacionales. En el Artículo 11 podría agregarse un inciso que dijera: "En caso de que se patente cualquier nuevo producto o proceso del germoplasma, la patente debe ser compartida con el país en que se colecciona". Generalmente, se hace un contrato entre la institución que hace de "sponsor" de la colección y la empresa, individuo o institución que colecta, llamado "contrato de vinculación tecnológica".
Con respecto a la Cuarta Conferencia Técnica Internacional, la mencionada Conferencia que se realizará entre fines de 1993 y comienzos de 1994 deberá tener en cuenta los compromisos alcanzados en el Comité negociador debiodiversidad y los arreglos institucionales que surjan en UNCED. Los trabajos preparatorios que se espera iniciar no deben duplicar esfuerzos que actualmente se realizan en ese sentido.
Respecto de la reunión del Grupo Especial de Expertos, que se convocara para enero, se sugiere se reúna luego de la sexta reunión del Comité de Biodiversidad prevista para fines de febrero, teniendo en cuenta que de ella se esperan resultados o tendencias firmes. La designación de expertos sólo podrá aceptarse si se trata de expertos gubernamentales, porque son los gobiernos quienes participan en la Conferencia, y además deberá asegurarse una adecuada representación geográfica equilibrada que contemple los intereses de los países en desarrollo.
La delegación de Argentina también insiste sobre la importancia que reviste la regionalización de las actividades para la difusión e intercambio de conocimientos y germoplasma.
Con respecto a la relación, interesa que se mantenga a la FAO como control sobre el IBPGR y el CIRF. Con respecto al Código de conducta, se considera en definitiva que es muy prematuro en relación con el estadio de las negociaciones internacionales.
Vishnu BHAGWAN (India): On behalf of the Indian delegation, I would like to thank the Secretariat for its comprehensive and informative document. It indicates how the global system on plant genetic resources has been developed by FAO during the last decade and the other components which are still under development. I should also like to congratulate Dr de Haen for his very useful overview of this document.
Availability of plant genetic resources is necessary not only for making advances in crop productivity and stabilizing agricultural production, but also to enable us to protect the environment with sustainability.
Indian interest and concern in the collection and utilization of plant genetic resources dates back to the early decades of this century. In 1976 the Government of India created a separate organization named National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) to coordinate collection, exchange and preservation of plant genetic resources. We also took active interest in the establishment of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources and we appreciate FAO's efforts in launching the Global System and giving it the requisite legal shape. India is a member of the CPGR and has also signed the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources.
We believe that all countries enjoy full sovereignty over the plant and animal genetic resources to be found in their territories. Exchange of such resources among countries and international organizations is only possible on the basis of equality and reciprocal advantages.
We also believe that the developing countries have a lot to contribute to the conservation of plant genetic resources and any network of base collections, international seed banks etc. which would be managed by FAO should seek speedy transfer of technology to developing countries and should strengthen the training of their experts. To be successful, such international cooperation should also be arranged on the principle of equality and reciprocity.
Turning now to the proposals in para 43, my delegation was a member of the group constituted by the Chairman of the Council to examine the text of the resolution at Appendix II. Though my country would very much like the international fund for implementing the Farmers' Rights to be mandatory, in the interests of consensus we agree to the draft under consideration. We hope that adequate resources will flow into it for safeguarding the interest of the farmers.
The draft international code of conduct for plant germplasm collection and transfer has been transmitted to our Government, but we are yet to receive an instruction. I am therefore not in a position at this stage to give any indication either way.
We feel that the proposed Technical Conference on Plant Genetic Resources will make a positive contribution. We therefore support the proposal, provided it is financed through extra-budgetary funds. We expect that the
state of the world's plant genetic resources and the Global Plan of Action on Plant Genetic Resources would be available before the Conference.
My delegation endorses the Council's recommendation that FAO should undertake urgent studies to identify any possible danger to germplasm stored in genebanks, and propose a solution. A standing arrangement for tackling such problems should also be identified.
Jorgen Skovgaard NIELSEN (Denmark): On behalf of the Danish delegation I take this opportunity to express my sincere appreciation of the efforts made by Dr de Haen and his collaborators to enhance FAO's professional capacity in the realm of plant genetic resources and its twin, biotechnology in general.
It is important that international cooperation is promoted in this area in order to ensure that all nations are in a position to explore the benefits of genetic resources in a sustainable way. Since FAO has got a special competence in balancing the aspects of production and protection, the Organization could play an important role in this context.
Denmark has noted with pleasure the top priority given in the Medium-Term Plan to environment and sustainable development. I hope the Secretariat can confirm that this firm commitment is valid for FAO's work on genetic resources and biotechnology as well. As a matter of fact, we believe that FAO can promote synergy by enhancing its competence in natural resource management and genetic resources by combining, but not necessarily amalgamating, experience derived from these activities.
However, I also have to stress the importance of labour division between each UN agency involved. It should be based on concentration on sectors where each agency has its mutually accepted comparative advantage. We therefore welcome the overall coordination done by the UNCED and UNEP in preparation of a convention on biodiversity. We take it for granted that the UNCED Conference secretariat and the Prep-Com's will draw extensively on FAO's professional skills and experience and that these organizations will also have an open and benevolent attitude to initiatives and suggestions coming from FAO.
The implementation of the decisions taken at the UNCED Conference should be based on the following principles:
We expect FAO to be positive and active in further work on implementation of the Convention.
We also expect close coordination around FAO's work with plant genetic resources and domesticated varieties, and in relation to the Convention on biodiversity.
Finally, FAO is supposed to follow up on appropriate UNCED decisions in this area.
We therefore also support the early convening, before the 1992 Council, of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources, as well as a fourth conference as proposed inter alia by the Swedish delegation.
Apart from these views, my intervention will be divided into two main sections: a few questions on the substance and finally questions of a more strategic nature.
Mr Chairman, I would like to put the following few specific questions through you to the Secretariat:
Although Denmark has a very high interest in starting up work on animal genetic resources, we have presently a clear preference for consolidation of FAO's work on plant genetic resources, primarily because animal genetic resources is an enormous and very costly task. I would like to know if FAO concurs with that opinion.
Secondly, as to the draft Code of Conduct for plant germplasm collecting and transfer: the Danish delegation considers the draft to be in the very mainstream of international work on biodiversity and plant genetic resources. However, the draft is very detailed and committing for the parties supposed to be involved, and it could become a rather bureaucratic and unwieldy instrument.
There could be a risk of inhibiting the realization of the PGR objectives of host countries and collectors. In order to avoid this risk we would prefer that the draft is referred to the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources for thorough examination and finalization, as was mentioned by several other delegations.
Our comments on the proposed draft resolution on farmers' rights are as follows. It is important to recognize that all nations, including both human beings and companies, can contribute and/or benefit from plant genetic resources. There should be no restriction on sustainable - and I repeat sustainable - utilization of resources from all parties. There should be equity of opportunity for participating in utilization, including the necessary technologies attached to their utilization.
The objectives of the proposed resolution on farmers' rights should be those mentioned above. My delegation emphasizes the need for FAO to concentrate on development of its professional skills in the realm of domesticated plant genetic resources and their wild relatives, as well as biotechnology in order to accomplish these goals. Appropriate means of evolving these objectives are, inter alia, special plans for plant genetic resources, special action plans for those plant genetic resources, and the necessary extra-budgetary funds. A special fund should not be considered an aim in itself. Farmers' rights cannot be implemented primarily or solely through a special fund. Therefore, the wording of the resolution ought to be reformulated. I state this as a matter of principle and in the hope that similar construction of resolutions can be avoided in the future. If a special fund is created, it should be integrated in the general funding mechanism being established in the process of a convention on biotechnology. It is an open question whether the Action Plan should be executed primarily or solely by FAO or some other appropriate body. However, we do believe that FAO perhaps is the body best able to play a major role in this context.
EL PRESIDENTE: Agradecemos las opiniones del Representante de Dinamarca, en relación a su contexto sobre ventajas cooperativas, convenio sobre diversidad y biotecnología y sus inquietudes en relación al Código de Conducta.
Paolo Estivallet de MESQUITA (Brazil): May I start by expressing our appreciation at being able to work in this Commission under your able guidance, Mr Chairman. May I also thank the Secretariat for the careful preparation of document C 91/24, and Mr de Haen for his introduction.
The Global System on Plant Genetic Resources of FAO constitutes the main driving force behind the evolving consensus of international cooperation for the conservation and wider utilization of plant genetic resources. FAO has also contributed to a growing awareness at national level of the potential value requirements connected with utilization of plant genetic resources. We are confident that the Fourth International Conference on Plant Genetic Resources will further strengthen FAO's prominent role in this area, and we look forward to it.
With regard to the draft resolution proposed as a third annex to the International Undertaking, I wish also to express our thanks to all those who participated in its elaboration. The extensive negotiations required for the preparation of the draft illustrates the considerable legal and political difficulties which still exist in this area. These difficulties stem from divergent points of view between holders of technology and holders of plant genetic resources, and also from the peculiarities of each country.
Brazilian legislation on intellectual property, for instance, does not recognize the concept of plant breeders' rights and has no category which could be assimilated in the definition of farmers' rights agreed by FAO. The recognition that nations have sovereign rights over their plant genetic resources is a welcome step forward. However, my Government still considers it to be insufficient without the recognition of the property rights which stem from sovereignty over the resources.
Other parts of the draft resolution also raise some doubts, in particular the reference to other funding mechanisms in paragraph 4. Paragraph 5 especially is not clear. Also, the use of the word "transparency" in this context is somewhat ambiguous.
I do not intend to call into question the carefully worded compromise. Therefore, I will limit myself to one more observation which is more circumstantial than substantial. As mentioned by other delegations, the global system of the FAO will have to be reviewed in the light of the outcome of the current negotiations on a convention on biodiversity, as well as the decisions taken at the United Nations Conference on the Environment and Development next year. It would be useful if the Conference expressly recognized the need for this review. This could be done through the addition of a sentence to the first "considerandum" of the draft resolution. Its wording could be left to the Secretariat. Alternatively, the Secretariat could suggest a reference to the same effect in our Report.
EL PRESIDENTE: Agradecemos las opiniones del señor Representante de Brasil en relación a los proyectos de resolución.
Philippe PIOTET (France): M. le Président, au moment où la Communauté internationale se mobilise pour la préparation de la Conférence des Nations Unies sur l'environnement et le développement de 1992, la délégation française ne peut que se féliciter des efforts déployés par la FAO pour apporter sa propre contribution à cette Conférence, dans le domaine des ressources génétiques.
Comme le montre bien le rapport C 91/24, préparé par le Secrétariat, l'adoption par notre Conférence, lors de sa dernière session, de résolutions reconnaissant simultanément les droits des obtenteurs et ceux des agriculteurs a permis d'élargir la participation à cet engagement et de lever certaines réserves. Ma délégation se félicite de cette évolution et considère qu'il convient de continuer à progresser dans cette direction plutôt que de chercher à transformer l'engagement international en un instrument juridique contraignant.
Sans entrer dans le détail de toutes les questions abordées par la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques lors de sa 4ème session, je voudrais tout d'abord rappeler l'appui de la France à l'établissement d'un plan global d'action dans le domaine des ressources phytogénétiques, permettant d'assurer toute la cohérence requise entre les divers éléments du dispositif mis en place par la FAO depuis 1983.
Dans cette perspective, ma délégation attache une importance particulière à la bonne articulation de ce plan avec l'ensemble des actions concernant la biodiversité actuellement examinée dans le cadre de la CNUED. A cet égard, je soutiens la proposition faite par le Brésil de prendre en compte les résultats de la CNUED dans les travaux menés par la FAO dans le cadre de ce plan d'action sur les ressources génétiques. Nous sommes également très attachés aux caractère opérationnel de ce plan d'action qui devrait en conséquence se concentrer sur les espèces présentant un intérêt pour l'agriculture et l'alimentation et répondre le plus directement possible aux besoins des Etats Membres en matière de développement agricole et d'amélioration nutrionnelle.
En ce qui concerne les moyens nécessaires pour la mise en oeuvre des actions de l'Organisation dans le domaine des ressources génétiques, je me limiterai à rappeler que la France souhaite que les différentes sources de financement internationales existantes accordent une priorité accrue au secteur des ressources phytogénétiques. C'est pour nous la première priorité. C'est aussi pour cette raison que ma délégation estime que le Fonds international pour les ressources phytogénétiqes envisagé dans le projet de résolution soumis à la Conférence à l'Annexe B du document C 91/24 doit être alimenté par des contributions volontaires affectées à des projets bien identifiés et approuvés par les parties concernées.
J'en viens maintenant au projet de Code de conduite pour la collecte et les transferts de matériel génétique végétal, présenté en Annexe C au document C 91/24. Ce document a déjà fait l'objet d'un examen rapide dans le cadre des travaux de la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques à laquelle mon pays a participé. C'est un document important et assez complexe. La France appuie le principe d'une meilleure définition des procédures à suivre et
des responsabilités des différents partenaires dans les opérations de collecte et de transfert de matériel génétique végétal. Le document proposé apporte donc dans ce sens une clarification et permet de poursuivre les réflexions. Ma délégation a bien noté le caractère volontaire et non contraignant du document proposé. Celui-ci constitue une bonne base de travail pour la mise au point de directives ou de recommandations qui, dans le cas des ressources phytogénétiques, constitueraient, me semble-t-il, la réponse la plus simple, la plus souple et la mieux adaptée aux besoins des Etats Membres.
Enfin, ma délégation approuve la convocation par la FAO de la quatrième Conférence technique internationale sur les ressources phytogénétique qui permettrait d'analyser la situation des ressources phytogénétiques dans le monde et d'élaborer le plan d'action prévu dans ce domaine, et aussi de tirer tous les enseignements utiles de la prochaine Conférence de Rio en juin 1992. Cette Conférence technique fournira également une excellente occasion de renforcer les liens de coopération entre la FAO et l'IBPGR, conformément aux accords signés à la fin de 1990 que la France a accueillis avec une grande satisfaction.
Ms Ljiljana VELASEVIC (Yugoslavia): I wish to point out that plant genetic resources is a highly important question not only for Yugoslavia but also for the world at large.
We believe that FAO has an important role to play in this particular field, and in the framework of UNEP in the negotiations on protecting biological diversity. As far as FAO/UNEP relations are concerned, we think that by means of negotiations, FAO should clearly establish the areas wherein it has comparative advantages over UNEP.
We further think that it is premature to discuss the International Undertaking as a legally binding document or protocol.
The setting up of a fund for the effective conservation and sustainable utilization of plant genetic resources is a highly important issue, but exclusively on a voluntary basis and not as an obligation of all the members. Furthermore, I would like to point out that it is indispensable to elaborate the criteria for utilizing the Fund's assets.
We support the convening of the Fourth International Technical Conference on Plant Genetic Resources, provided adequate financing is ensured.
We are fully aware of the importance of in situ and ex situ conservation of genetic resources. However, we also think that a series of technical and financial difficulties stem from in situ conservation, and believe that the management of those resources should be examined together with other international agencies such an UNEP and UNCED, and that FAO should place greater emphasis on ex situ conservation.
We welcome FAO's initiative to reorganize its seed laboratory and transform it into a Plant Information and Exchange Unit and to expand a seed information system into the Global Information and Early Warning System on Plant Genetic Resources. I wish to inform you that Yugoslavia has achieved significant results in the field of plant selection (maize, sunflower, wheat) by using native selection materials as a source of adaptability to
growth conditions. However, organized work on plant genetic resources (exploration, collection, conservation an utilization) at the federal level was initiated only three years ago, namely, with the establishment of the national programme with the involvement of 26 institutes. In 1990 we started building a gene bank, as a federal institution with a capacity of 100 000 samples in the base collection.
Yugoslavia participates in the International Undertaking. We are ready to join in the network of gene banks of the base collection. We find contract "C" type with FAO as the best suited for our country. We are also ready to place part of the established premises for keeping the base collection at the disposal of FAO.
I would further like to emphasize that for the full cooperation of the national programme and the gene bank we shall need corresponding professional assistance and partial financial support.
We have concluded a Technical Assistance Contract with FAO. However, due to the present situation in the country - and here I am referring above all to security aspects - we are running late with the implementation. However, we think that some parts of the training programme could be launched even under the present circumstances.
Last but not least, allow me to point out that Yugoslavia supports the proposed resolution with the amendment prepared by Turkey.
Concerning the Draft International Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collecting and Transfer, I would like to stress that we did not receive the documents for this item, or for most of them, so that we were not able to consider this item without experts. However, taking into account the wish of most delegations in reaching a consensus on this matter, we will support the Code of Conduct in principle.
Michael CARROLL (Australia) : My delegation appreciates the clarity of the document provided by the Secretariat and the lucid introduction by Dr de Haen, and appreciates the work that has gone on behind the document. The FAO global system for the conservation and utilization of plant genetic resources is an important initiative that has been the subject of long and careful consideration. The basic principles underlying the system is strongly supported by the Australian Government.
Australia is a member of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources but has not yet signed the Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources. The reason for this lies with the institutional framework governing genetic resources in Australia. Australia has a network of eight genetic resource centres in different parts of the country dealing with different groups of plant species. These centres are funded and managed independently of the national government. The Australian Government has not been in a position to sign the Undertaking until concerns relating to the ability of the genetic centres to comply with conditions of the Undertaking could be met. Australia's position has been that the availability of germplasm should be on mutually agreed terms.
The provisions contained in the Draft Resolution of Annex 3, Appendix B of the agenda paper would appear to reverse the reservations that Australia has held about signing the Undertaking. Following an internal meeting scheduled for early in the new year, Australia expects to be in a position to sign the Undertaking. Australia is therefore supportive of the Draft Resolution of Annex 3, but has a reservation about the Resolution. That relates to the interpretation as to whether the International Fund in line 1, paragraph 3, page B2, is voluntary or whether it could place an open-ended obligation on Member Nations. Australia would have a difficulty with an unspecified obligation. It is appreciated that we are dealing here with a carefully worked compromise but we commend the issue of clarification of the Fund to the Secretariat and the Drafting Committee.
With respect to the Draft International Code of Conduct for Germplasm Collection and Transfer, Australia would also like to give a positive response at this time. Historically, Australian plant scientists have had a long and fruitful association with scientists in other countries, particularly in the Mediterranean region, in the collection and exchange of plant genetic material. This has been on a mutually agreed bilateral basis. We recognize, however, that the goodwill of cooperating scientists is no longer a sufficient basis for accountability and responsibility in this field and that more formal guidelines are now necessary for the guidance of scientists, institutions and nations.
Australia believes that the Draft International Code will provide the framework for the more formal accountability and responsibility now required in the international collection and transfer of plant genetic material. At the same time, the Code allows for the flexibility and latitude needed by countries to conduct germplasm collection and transfer under bilateral arrangements on mutually agreed terms. Australia therefore endorses the Code in principle but is interested in the observations and amendments foreshadowed by other delegates which we have not had the opportunity to consider.
With respect to the proposed Fourth International Conference on Plant Genetic Resources, Australia believes that the organizers should establish as soon as possible clear and agreed Conference objectives. This will enable Member Nations to assess the nature, level and extent of participation. We therefore support the preparation of the Conference as proposed in Appendix D.
In conclusion, the Australian delegation wishes to confirm its strong support for the principle of a global system on plant genetic resources. With its relevant geographic isolation, developed agricultural systems and its existing network of ex situ and in situ genetic resource centres, Australia is in a position to play a positive role in the future of this initiative.
Hans-Dietrich VON BOTHMER (Germany) (Original language German): We, too, would like to join previous speakers in thanking Dr de Haen for his very clear introduction to this subject. We would also like to thank the Secretariat for submitting a brief but comprehensive and clear document.
First of all, I would like to refer to page 10 of document C 91/24, section 4, paragraph 43. I would like to comment on sub-paragraph (i),
paragraph 43 on page 10. I will recall that we have submitted, in accordance with the decision by the CBPGR, proposals relating to the International Code of Conduct, and we hope that this will be taken into account when the text is redrafted. This refers to sub-paragraph (2) of this paragraph.
As regards paragraph 43, sub-paragraph (3), we support the idea of convening a conference on the Fourth International Technical Conference on Plant Genetic Resources, and we would be very happy if the time for preparation could be kept as brief as possible for reasons of economy in order that the Conference could be convened at the end of 1993, or at least at the beginning of 1994.
My third point relates to sub-paragraph (4) of paragraph 43, page 11. At the CPGR session my country announced its support for the carrying out of studies in Central and Eastern Europe. In the light of the wealth of experience and knowledge available in our institutes for plant genetics and crop research in Gattersleben, I would like to state that we are prepared to provide staff to carry out these studies.
Turning briefly to Appendix B of our paper, which is a Draft Conference Resolution, we have a bit of a problem with the form of words, especially in the first section "Recognizing that", which has four sub-paragraphs. We feel that the essential aspects of the whole thing, which is FAO's International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources, is still left wide open, namely, the question of unrestricted access to plant genetic resources. For this reason, we would like to propose a compromise wording that would relate to the fourth sub-paragraph of the section. Instead of reading as it now does, it would read with an alternative wording that we would submit to the Secretariat.
We also have a comment on the section beginning "Endorses the following points". Paragraph 1 should be expanded and completed we feel, because at the CPGR session there was an agreement to the effect that sovereignty as such is not sufficient as a concept and that each country has to make a contribution to effective conservation and utilization. We will submit a text to this effect to the Secretariat.
Turning to paragraphs 3 and 4 of the same section, I ask you to note that we cannot agree to the establishment of a further fund that would commit us to further contributions. The question of an international fund for plant genetic resources is something that has to be looked at in close connection, as Denmark has mentioned, with a planned convention on biodiversity within the framework of UNCED 1992, and in relation to whatever funding instruments emerge from UNCED 1992.
EL PRESIDENTE: Agradezco la intervención del señor Representante de Alemania, así como las de los demás señores delegados, en relación al tema sobre los recursos fitogenéticos. La delegación de Myanmar ha hecho llegar sus opiniones por escrito, las cuales serán consignadas en Secretaría.
U. Tin HTUT OO (Myanmar) : On behalf of the Myanmar delegation I wish to add my congratulationsto those of the speakers who have preceded me to the Secretariat for the excellent report presented. We highly commend FAO's initiatives and actions on this very important work.
Myanmar, as a member of the FAO Commission on Plant Genetic Resources, noted with satisfaction that world interest in plant genetic resources has grown rapidly in recent years. We would like to reaffirm our country's support for this important element for the future generation.
Mr Chairman, it is extremely important to adopt appropriate technologies, adaptable to local agro-ecological conditions in order to generate appreciable increases in productions. The replacement of traditional varieties with HYVs, however, can lead to reduction in genetic diversity and the total reliance on HYV monocultures, are vulnerable to pest and disease and the development of pesticide resistance. Therefore, the need for a well coordinated global system for conservation and utilization of plant genetic resources becomes more critical for sustainable development and for the prevention of environment deterioration.
In cognizance of the importance of plant genetic resources, the preservation of many traditional varieties with desirable genetic qualities which are still in existence in Myanmar and wild relatives of cultivated plants, paddy in particular, has been carried out with the establishment of Seed Bank Project in cooperation of Japan International Cooperation Agency. We would like to offer our national facilities to FAO Commission for the possible establishment of conservation activities and network.
The Myanmar delegation fully endorses the Draft Conference Resolution and Draft International Code of Conduct for Plant Germplasm Collecting and Transfer submitted for approval by this Conference and also pleased to approve the convening of the Fourth International Technical Conference for the conservation and utilization of plant genetic resources.1
The meeting rose at 12.45 hours.
La séance est levée à 12 h 45.
Se levanta la sesión a las 12.45 horas.
_________________________
1 Statement inserted in the Verbatim Records on request.
