Safeguarding and Sharing Plant Genetic Resources

Abstract

It has become increasingly clear during the last few decades that meeting the food needs of the world's growing population depends, to a large extent, on the conservation and utilization of the world's remaining plant genetic resources. It is In this context that the International Technical Conference on Plant Genetic Resources takes place in Leipzig, Germany In June 1996. Organized by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, in close cooperation with IPGRI and other partners, the Conference will bring together experts and officials from more than 150 countries to review and finalize the first comprehensive report on the State of the World's Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (FAO, 1996) and consider for formal adoption a Global Plan of Action for the Conservation and Sustainable Utilization of Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. The Conference aims to mobilize global action to safeguard plant genetic resources for future generations and to ensure their sustainable and equitable use.