Amman, July 23 (Petra) -- Jordan and Uzbekistan have signed a memorandum of understanding to expand cooperation in agricultural research and the exchange of plant and animal genetic resources between the National Agricultural Research Center (NARC) and Uzbekistan’s Research Institute of Plant Genetic Resources at the National Center for Agricultural Knowledge and Innovation.

The agreement was signed during a meeting between Minister of Agriculture Saeb Kharaysat and an Uzbek delegation from the Ministry of Agriculture. Kharaysat highlighted the relations between the two countries and the importance of developing cooperation in the agricultural sector.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, the memorandum follows the executive program for cooperation between the Jordanian and Uzbek agriculture ministries and aims to enhance collaboration in scientific research, exchange expertise, strengthen research capabilities, and support efforts related to food security and sustainable agricultural development.

Kharaysat said the cooperation will include joint research and experiments to assess and develop selected plant varieties, exchange technical knowledge, and organize scientific and field visits between researchers and specialists from both countries.

As part of the cooperation, Jordan provided the Uzbek side with samples of grain and vegetable seeds stored at the National Seed Bank. The seeds have characteristics that help them tolerate salinity caused by soil conditions or irrigation water and will be used in research and agricultural trials to develop varieties better suited to salt-affected environments.

The Uzbek side also provided Jordan with samples of grain and vegetable seeds as part of the exchange of plant genetic resources and efforts to introduce salt-tolerant varieties through research and development programs.

The cooperation also included providing the Uzbek delegation with a number of Awassi sheep to support research into the breed’s genetic characteristics and contribute to livestock improvement programs.

The Uzbek delegation expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Agriculture and the National Agricultural Research Center for their efforts in supporting and facilitating agricultural cooperation between the two countries.

//Petra//WH