Baqaa, May 19 (Petra) — Director General of the National Centre for Agricultural Research (NCAR) Ibrahim Rawashdeh discussed collaboration in biodiversity promotion with a delegation from the US Embassy in Amman on Monday.

The delegation included Sickinger, Director of the Regional Environment Office; Muhannad Shahwan, Agricultural Specialist at the US Department of Agriculture; Gomertz, Economic Officer specialising in Water and Environment; and Yara Abu Laban, Regional Environmental Specialist.

During their visit to the National Seed Bank of NCAR, the delegation praised the centre’s vital role in preserving biodiversity and conserving plant heritage. They expressed the embassy’s interest in strengthening cooperation with the National Seed Bank in biodiversity.

Rawashdeh explained that the National Seed Bank, inaugurated by His Majesty King Abdullah II, aligns with the objectives of the Economic Modernisation Vision and the National Sustainable Development Plan, both of which are under development by the Jordanian Ministry of Agriculture.

He emphasised the centre’s plans to expand research using modern tissue culture and molecular techniques to evaluate wild and local strains of economically important crops, aiming to accelerate the development of viable varieties to support food security.

He highlighted the centre’s interest in positioning the region as a valuable source of genetic diversity that benefits both regional and broader agricultural efforts.

Rawashdeh expressed optimism about future collaborations that will promote biodiversity and enhance sustainable agricultural development in the region.

//Petra// AK
19/05/2025 20:16:13