Genetic engineering, an issue for Asia

This was announced at the second annual conference of the so-called Greater Cuu Long (Mekong) Delta Sub-region (GMS) a the weekend.

At the meeting, Viet Nam reported that several non-modified varieties of rice, soybean and potatoes it had received from other members had brought promising results.

The move to ban transgenic materials was made by Thailand, one of the six members of the GMS.

Thailand is one of the growing number of nations throughout the world that has banned the importation of transgenic soybeans for any purpose.

The other members of the group are Viet Nam, Myanmar, Thailand, China and Laos.

The basic function of the regional group is to test plant species and varieties that are highly productive and suitable to the region.

"Last year, we sent five varieties of rice, four of soybean and three of potato to the network for experimentation," said Bui Huy Hop, deputy director and presidential assistant of the Viet Nam Academy of Agricultural Sciences (VAAS).

"And, in turn, we have received several varieties mentally cultivated them," he added.

Viet Nam has encouraged its neighbours to continue exchanging breeding materials, scientists and publications as well as sharing experience and training.

It has also initiated a move to develop joint research on breeding and growing techniques.

"We have also recommended that some burning issues on insect and disease control should be studied in the region," Hop said.

Hosted by the Vietnamese Academy of Agricultural Sciences and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the meeting was described by Dr Ouk Makara, president of the Cambodian Agricultural Research and Development Institute as highly meaningful for a stronger partnership and common prosperity.

Results of programmes to train farmers in new techniques were also presented at the conference.

Earlier this month, delegates made a six-day upland study tour of northern Phu Tho and Bac Ninh provinces to visit VAAS's experimental stations producing soybeans, maize, vegetables, fruit and flowers.

The first meeting of the sub-regional group was held in Kunming, China, last September.

Its first workshop last year defined the priority areas of regional components as soybeans, potatoes, sugarcane and upland rice.

The organisation aims to provide food security, alleviate poverty and promote the practice of environmentally sustainable agriculture.