Within the framework of the 18th meeting of the Governing Council of the European Plant Genetic Resources Cooperation Program (ECPGR), the members of the delegation visited the Jighaura base of the SCP Agricultural Scientific and Research Center.
National coordinators of 34 European countries, gene banks, scientific and research institutes, as well as representatives of international organizations got acquainted with the genetic resources of plants protected at the base of Jighaura, visited unique collectible gardens of Georgian grapes and grapes and received information about the search, recovery, protection, research and conservation of local cultural varieties and wild forms About the activities carried out in the direction.
During the visit, the guests visited the Museum of Vine and Wine, tasted wines made from rare and less common varieties of Georgian grapes protected at the base of Jighaura, got to know the centuries-old traditions of Georgian vineyard-winemaking, and the rich genetic heritage of the country.
“Georgia, in terms of genetic resources of plants, is one of the most important countries for Europe. The collections protected at the base of Jighaura clearly represent the rich genetic diversity that Georgia possesses. “We are delighted to have been allowed to get to know this unique heritage up close,” said ECPGR Executive Committee Chairman Jens Weibul.
According to Levan Ujmajuridze, Director of the Agricultural Scientific and Research Center, such international meetings are an important opportunity for Georgia to deepen cooperation with European scientific and research institutes, share modern experiences, and introduce the country’s unique agro-diversity to the international community.
“It is particularly important that there is active work towards the creation of the National Genetic Bank, which will contribute to the long-term protection of the genetic resources of plants, – noted Levan Ujmajuridze.
Georgia hosted the 18th meeting of the ECPGR governing council on June 1-4. During the meetings, participants discussed issues of conservation, sustainable use, and strengthening international cooperation of plant genetic resources, as well as future priorities and development directions of the program.
Georgia has been a member of ECPGR since 2019 and actively participates in international initiatives within the framework of the program. ECPGR is one of the most important platforms for European cooperation in the field of plant genetic resources.
