CHAIRMAN: I call the meeting to order. The first speaker on the list is the delegate of Czechoslovakia.
Josef FOJTL (Czechoslovakia): The Czechoslovak delegation very much appreciates document C 89/24, Interpretation of the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources, and all FAO activities in this area. We have only minor remarks to make on this topic.
If we understand the Interpretation correctly, Chapter IV and Appendix 1 (a) emphasize the recognition of the rights of both the plant breeders and the farmers. This should establish the equity between the owners of the means of production and technologies, on the one hand, and the owners of the genetic resources on the other hand. The equity establishment would stimulate the free exchange of resources. This way of interpreting the matter seems to be correct, and we cannot but agree.
In our view, the formulation in Appendix 1 (a) does not say much. This could perhaps be helped by saying that the samples of genetic resources would only be used for breeding and scientific purposes and not for comercial purposes: in other words, for multiplication of the seed stock and growing.
We believe it is right that the limitations on the exchange of genetic resources should be minimized. Only two limitations seem to us to be necessary. First, the recognized varieties should be supplied only for breeding and scientific purposes, in acœrdance with the International Juridical Regulations. Second, as for the special genetic lines of varieties, free availability should not be announced. The statement in page 8 that free availability does not mean free of charge does not settle the problem.
It should be up to the owner if he offers such materials as freely available in exchange for other materials for sale or if he does not announce them at all. We think that in general no duty nor of moral nature should be combined with the ownership of these genetic resources.
It might be helpful to classify the genetic resources by their availability in two or three groups:
1. freely available: it has to be sent on request;
2. available with owners' agreement, which means that in case of interest the Gene Bank mediates the conduct with the owner of the sample and acts according to his instructions; and
3. samples stored only and not destined for distribution, which are not on the list of the Gene Bank.
At the present time Czechoslovakia is accomplishing the legislative measures needed for joining the Convention on Plant Genetic Resources, We believe that in the near future it will become a member country of this Convention.
José BOLIVAR SALCEDO) (España) : Mi delegación desea presentar un Proyecto de Resolución sobre la Interpretación Concertada del Compromiso Internacional. En este Proyecto únicamente se da forma de Resolución al texto que al respecto se encuentra en el documento C 89/24, en las páginas 7 y 8. El texto está disponible, o estará disponible en breve, en las distintas lenguas oficiales a disposición de quienes deseen conocerlo.
El objeto de presentar este Proyecto de Resolución es que nos parece que un hecho tan importante como el llegar a una Interpretación Concertada del Compromiso Internacional requerirá al mismo tener el mismo nivel que se pretende con la Resolución relativa a los derechos de los agricultores.
En el texto sobre la Interpretación Concertada del Compromiso Internacional se recogen conceptos que han sido ampliamente consensuados a lo largo de un proceso que se inició con la creación de un Grupo de Contacto durante la segunda reunión de la Comisión de Recursos Fitogenéticos, que tuve el honor de presidir.
A esta reunión del Grupo de Contacto se invitó a los países más críticos, que tuvieron la oportunidad de participar en ella; y a ella incluso asistieron algunos países no miembros de la FAO, como es el caso de la Unión Soviética.
Las recomendaciones del Grupo de Contacto fueron aprobadas por la Comisión en su segunda reunión, que encargó al Grupo de Trabajo que preparase el texto para llegar a esta Interpretación Concertada.
Presentado a la Comisión, en su tercera reunión, el texto que hoy tenemos a la vista -no este texto, sino el primitivo que presentó el grupo de trabajo-fue discutido y enmendado, y nuevamente volvió a reunirse el grupo de trabajo conjuntamente con aquellos países que habían propuesto enmiendas, particularmente con el Reino Uhido, que tuvo una participación muy activa en estas reuniones del grupo de trabajo; se modificó el texto inicial y, finalmente, se presentó el que hoy nos encontramos, que fue aprobado por la Comisión, con la petición al Director General de que fuese presentado a esta Conferencia a través del Consejo.
Desde la última reunión de la Comisión, celebrada el pasado mes de abril, he observado con satisfacción que seis nuevos miembros se han adherido a la Comisión y otro más al Compromiso, siendo en la actualidad 122 países los que pertenecen a la Comisión: se han adherido al Compromiso, o bien toman parte en ambas actividades.
Mi delegación quiere expresar su confianza de que, con esta interpretación concertada del Compromiso Internacional que hoy examinamos, se ampliará la adhesión al Compromiso Internacional, y quiero aprovechar esta oportunidad para expresar la confianza de mi pais en el sistema global de recursos fito genéticos de la FAO y el convencimiento de que es un elemento totalmente necesario en el memento histórico en que vivimos.
A este respecto, desearía resaltar la importancia de los últimos acuerdos tomados por la Comisión de Recursos Fitogenéticos en su última y tercera reunión: en particular, el acuerdo sobre los informes periódicos sobre la situación mundial de los recursos fitogenéticos; el establecimiento de un sistema global de información y de alerta; el establecimiento de una red de relaciones base bajo la jurisdicción o auspicios de la FAO; el establecimiento de una red de zonas de conservación in situ, que incluiría plantas y animales, y el estudio de unos códigos de conducta sobre las colectas de germoplasma y sobre la biotecnología aplicada a los recursos fitogenéticos, así como el establecimiento de un comité asesor que incluya las distintas organizaciones que trabajan en recursos fitogenéticos y la preparación de un plan global de acción que esté en línea con el Plan de Acción Forestal para los Trópicos.
Pero dentro de la importancia que sin duda tienen todos estos acuerdos temados por la Comisión, deseo destacar, entre todos ellos, recomendaciones que al respecto se hacen de esta interpretación concertada del Compromiso Internacional, que trata de obviar las reservas que hasta ahora se han presentado.
Svetoslav JTVKOV (Bulgaria): Mi delegación ha estudiado detalladamente los documentos C 89/24 y C 89/LIM/29, y considera que en ellos están reflejados los puntos principales del Compromiso Internacional sobre los Recursos Fitogenéticos y se da la posibilidad de una discusión constructiva. Nosotros valoramos la gran importancia de la presente y futura utilización de los recursos fitogenéticos para el trabajo selectivo. En relación con esto, quisiéramos mencionar que la colección nacional de Bulgaria contiene más de 40 000 especies genéticas. Con la colaboración de la FAO, en mi país se creó y organizó un instituto nacional, en el cual existen condiciones perfectas para la preservación de los recursos fitogenéticos. Nuestro país está dispuesto a colaborar más estrechamente con la FAO y con los países interesados en el intercambio de recursos fitogenéticos; lógicamente, en condiciones previamente coordinadas.
También nosotros estamos interesados en el intercambio de visitas de expertos científicos que están trabajando en la rama de los recursos fitogenéticos. En cuanto al programa internacional para la formación de especialistas, estamos dispuestos a organizar, con la colaboración de la FAO, cursos para el perfeccionamiento de especialistas de los países en vías de desarrollo.
Quisiéramos también informarles que en los últimos años el Instituto para la Introducción y Recursos de Plantas está cumpliendo proyectos para la recolección e investigación de salvajes parientes de plantas cultivadas en territorio búlgaro, como, por ejemplo, vizia, trifolium, egilops, vitis y prunos.
Señor Presidente, en cuanto al párrafo 5 del documento 89/24, nosotros apoyamos las recomendaciones formuladas por la Comisión y el Consejo en relación con el establecimiento de un sistema mundial de información. También es importante la preparación de un código de conducta para los recolectores internacionales y otro sobre la biotecnología, en cuanto relacionada con los recursos fitogenéticos. Consideramos que con esto se mejorará considerablemente el trabajo en esta rama.
Nuestra delegación apoya el proyecto de resolución sobre los derechos del agricultor. Consideramos que el intercambio futuro de recursos fitogenéticos debe respetar los acuerdos f irmados en los distintos órganos internacionales y se debe asegurar un intercambio libre de recursos fitogenéticos.
En conclusión, y a pesar de que la sede del IBPGR no está ahora aquí, en Roma, pensamos que las relaciones con este organismo de la FAO tienen que continuar, porque ello será útil para toda la Organización.
Fiori jan KOVAC (Yugoslavia): Mr Chairman, the Yugoslav delegation is very interested in the subject under the review, since Yugoslavia has been the member of the Commission for Plant Genetic Resources ever since its establishment and was also a member of the Working Group entrusted with the preparation of the 1987 session. In addition, Yugoslavia joined the International Undertaking this year, and it is currently pursuing a number of related activities.
I would like to take this opportunity to express, on behalf of my delegation, the satisfaction over the comprehensiveness of the material prepared and analytical approach followed.
I wish to emphasize in particular our appreciation of the fact that this International Undertaking leads to intensified FAO activities in the sphere of plant genetic resources, and to point to the fact that many initial problems were successfully overcome. An increasing number of countries and NGOs displayed their interest in joining the International Undertaking, and as a result of that, the membership in the Commission substantially increased as we were just told here to 122. We are confident that this trend will continue in the future as well.
Mr Chairman, the justification of the FAO International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources is becoming increasingly expressed. Therefore, this time again, on behalf of my country's delegation I wish to express our unreserved support to the undertaking and to endorse the Report of the Third Session of the Commission for Plant Genetic Resources.
I especially wish to emphasize our support to the Resolution on Farmers' Rights, which coincides with the objectives of Yugoslavia in this area and constitutes the proper way for the conservation of plant genetic resources as the cammon heritage of mankind making them available for the usage of and benefitting the present and future generations.
I should like to brief you, Mr Chaiman, and all delegates here on the project of plant genetic resources of Yugoslavia. We wish to set up a national programme for plant genetic resources through the establishment of a genes fund and plant genes bank as a federal institution with an international centre for the study of the impact of new bio-technologies on the conservation and utilization of plant genetic resources. So far, we have undertaken a number of actions. Yugoslavia has prepared a programme for plant genetic resources, elaborated a feasibility study for the construction of a plant genes bank of Yugoslavia, established a commission of the Federal Executive Council for Plant Genetic Resources, rade a decision on the construction of the plant genes bank, selected the designer and coordinator, and earmarked a certain amount of money for the work.
We expect FAO assistance and cooperation in our future activities.
Shamim AHMED (Bangladesh) : Allow me to congratulate the FAO Secretariat for presenting this excellent document C 89/24 on a very important subject. I should also like to thank the Assistant Director-General for his lucid presentation of the topic.
The document under consideration contains text for an agreed interpretation of the International undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources as approved at the Ninety-Fifth Session of the FAO Council, and the draft resolution on farmers' rights. These have been presented for adoption by the Conference in order to append tham to the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources. The document also contains useful background information on the developments leading to formulation of the proposed text and the resolution.
For a country like Bangladesh which has a large population with a limited land area, the importance of plant genetic resources and the need for deriving benefit accruing from research and development in this field through international cooperation does not need to be re-emphasized. My delegation, therefore, commends the continued activities of FAO endeavouring for a global system to coordinate activities in the field of plant genetic resources. We can hardly over-emphasize our concern for collection, conservation and evaluation not only of the cultivated crops and their wild relatives, but also of the non-crop plant species. We must find ways of preserving the plant species along with their genetic diversity for future use within the country as well as worldwide. For dissemination of information for the common benefit of mankind germplasm has to transcend national boundaries. That is why international cooperation is the imperative need here.
Allan Neal SMITH (Australia): Australia places great importance on the preservation of plant genetic resources, as witnessed by the extensive network of centres which we have throughout the country. Nevertheless, Australia did not sign the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources since we have some reservations, particularly with regard to the proposal to give FAO full control of the germplasm collection in adhering countries. Australia also had some concerns about the definition of germplasm that was to be made available; the position of collections not owned by the Australian Government; and the possibility of compulsory contributions to a fund.
Since the International Undertaking was formulated, the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources has proposed four models, countries being able to select their preferred method of adherence to the Undertaking. This has removed one of the major obstacles to adherence as far as Australia is concerned. However, there are still some reservations.
First, in relation to the type of material available, material in private collections could not be committed by the Australian Government. It should be noted also that the collections in the National Network of Genetic Resource Centres are owned and operated by State Governments. Agreement of the States would be necessary before Australian Government participation in any undertaking could come into effect.
Secondly, Article 8 asks adhering nations to give special consideration to requests for extra funds where necessary to secure the objectives of the Undertaking. Australia could not agree to such contributions being made mandatory.
Thirdly, Australia understands the concerns of developing countries concerning the use of their material by plant breeders, often without payment, but my country considers that this could be better resolved with free exchange of germplasm were the International Board of Plant Genetic Resources to be used rather than the setting up of yet another FAO Fund.
Fourthly, concerning the draft resolution on farmers' rights, the paper before the Conference recognizes the contribution from farmers throughout the world in maintaining plant varieties. It is Australia's view, however, that the term "farmers' rights" is antagonistic to many countries, carrying with it legal complexities and connotations of special rights for one sector of the community. We consider that the title for the resolution would be better as "Recognition of the Contribution of Farmers".
In sumrary, Australia could endorse the agreed interpretation were the words "Farmers' Rights" to be replaced by other less emotive ones.
Australia could take steps to adhere to the International undertaking on the basis that there is no compulsory contribution to the International Fund, that the material to be nade available can be specified, and that the agreed interpretation be annexed to the Undertaking.
Philippe PIOTET (France): La France, qui a adhéré à l'engagement international sur les ressources phytogénétiques en 1984, a exprimé également certaines réserves, comme l'ont fait aussi 28 autres Etats Membres qui ont adhéré à cet engagement.
Nous avons donc suivi avec un grand intérêt l'ensemble des travaux qui se sont déroulés au cours des quatre dernières années en vue d'élargir la participation des Etats Membres et de lever le plus grand nombre possible des réserves exprimées.
La solution proposée à la Conférence, consistant à adopter une interprétation concertée, représente un progrès important et recueille dans son principe l'accord de ma délégation.
En ce qui concerne le contenu du texte proposé à l'Annexe 1 du document C 89/24, la France appuie pleinement le paragrafale a) qui déclare que les droits des obtenteurs tels qu'ils sont reconnus par l'UPOV ne sont pas incompatibles avec l'engagement international.
Ma délégation considère également aussi comme essentiel de mentionner comme c'est le cas dans le paragraphe c) du texte proposé, que ce sont les agriculteurs de toutes les régions du monde qui contribuent à la conservation et à la mise en valeur des ressources phytogénétiques. Ces dernières sont en effet - comme le reconnaît fort justement le projet de résolution - le patrimoine commun de l'humanité.
S'agissant du paragrafale d), ma délégation a deux réserves à présenter.
La première concerne la proposition faite de soumettre au contrôle de la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques les modalités de conservation, de gestion et d'utilisation de ces ressources. Le terme de "contrôle" ne me semble pas approprié car il reviendrait à reconnaître un droit de regard sur les activités des Etats Membres à une Commission qui n'a, en fait, qu'un rôle consultatif. Il serait donc préférable de parler d'examen ou d'étude.
Ma seconde observation concerne le Fonds international pour les ressources phytogénétiques, vis-à-vis duquel la France a toujours adopté une attitude réservée, considérant avec d'autres pays qu'il existe par ailleurs de multiples possibilités de financement international pour de telles actions et qu'un fonds spécifique n'est pas indispensable.
Ma délégation souhaite donc que le caractère volontaire des contributions à ce fonds soit maintenu et confirmé.
En adhérant à l'engagement international, il y a maintenant 5 ans, la France avait demandé que soit clairement définie l'articulation entre la FAO et les centres du GCRAI, et plus particulièrement l'IBPGR.
Cette question a été largement débattue tant au sein de notre Organisation que dans le cadre des diverses instances du GCRAI.
Tout récemment encore, et M. Bonté Friedheim le rappelait encore ce matin, il a été convenu de mettre au point un mémorandum d'entente qui définirait les modalités de coopération entre les parties concernées.
La France demeure convaincue de la nécessité de maintenir des liens très étroits entre la FAO et l'IBPGR et elle émet le voeu que le mémorandum d'entente soit établi très rapidement dans cet esprit.
J'en viens maintenant au projet de résolution sur le droit des agriculteurs.
Je ne m'attarderai pas sur les aspects proprement juridiques de cette notion, bien qu'ils aient en eux-mêmes une grande importance. Le métier d'agriculteur répond en effet dans la plupart des pays à une définition précise impliquant des droits et des obligations déterminés par des textes législatifs et réglementaires très différents d'un pays à l'autre.
S'agissant du projet de résolution soumis à la Conférence, il est clair pour ma délégation que le terme d'"agriculteurs" doit être entendu au sens le plus large, c'est-à-dire s'adressant de la manière la plus générale aux hommes et aux femmes de tous les pays et des générations tant passées que futures qui cultivent la terre pour leur subsistance ou pour se procurer un revenu.
Il est bien difficile aujourd'hui de dire d'une manière générale et définitive que le mérite d'avoir fourni les ressources génétiques actuellement exploitées revient très précisément à tel pays, telle région ou telle catégorie de pays. Qui peut le dire?
La notion essentielle dans ce domaine est celle d'un patrimoine commun de l'humanité qu'il convient de préserver et d'utiliser dans l'intérêt des générations présentes et futures.
Dans ce contexte, ma délégation estime qu'il conviendrait de revoir la rédaction du considérant b) du projet de résolution car le texte actuel fait un amalgame entre deux notions très différentes:
- d'une part celle de l'origine des ressources phytogénétiques,
- d'autre part celle des besoins particuliers des pays en développement pour leur permettre de tirer le meilleur parti des ressources phytogénétiques.
Je disais il y a un instant qu'il est difficile de savoir d'où proviennent les ressources génétiques. Si l'on se penche sur les décennies et les siècles passés, beaucoup d'experts ont des difficultés à savoir d'où elles proviennent effectivement.
S'agissant des besoins particuliers des pays en développement, cette notion tout à fait légitime et qu'appuie la France, est en fait exprimée très clairement dans le considérant c) qui traite spécialement de ce sujet.
Ma délégation propose donc que le considérant b) soit rédigé d'une manière plus claire, qui pourrait être: "ces ressources proviennent souvent de pays différents de ceux qui les ont utilisées pour développer leur agriculture".
La délégation française tient à exprimer le voeu que sur ce projet de résolution, comme sur l'interprétation concertée, la Conférence puisse aboutir à un consensus car il s'agit d'une question vitale pour la Communauté internationale.
Enfin, je voudrais indiquer à la Conférence la position prise par la France au Comité de l'Agriculture en ce qui concerne les ressources génétiques animales car ces deux points avaient été évoqués de façon assez jointe.
Il s'agit d'un domaine essentiel dans lequel il importe de développer les activités de la FAO mais qui, sur le plan scientifique et technique, fait appel à une expertise et à des pratiques très différentes de celles utilisées pour les ressources phytogénétiques.
C'est la raison pour laquelle la délégation française estime qu'il ne serait pas opportun d'élargir aux ressources génétiques aniñóles le mandat de la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques et qu'il est préférable de chercher à mettre en place des dispositions adaptées aux problèmes posés par la conservation et la mise en valeur des ressources génétiques animales.
MA GENG-OU (China) (original language Chinese) : Document 89/24 provides us with a unified interpretation of certain Articles on the International Agreement. This is the result of a common effort on the part of participants at meetings of the Committees cai Agriculture and the Council. This document not only recognizes the rights of breeders and farmers with regard to the use of plant genetic resources, but it is also stressed that free access does not mean free access. The use of this material should be based upon a principle of reciprocity. This interpretation upholds the principle of freer access, whilst it also takes account of the rights and duties of those providing material and technology, and does away with the discrepancies and differences between the language and policy. This interpretation provides a base to allow us to move towards a more general acceptance of the Understanding. The Chinese delegation would like the present Conference to adopt the interpretation of the Document and the Resolutions and it will make a contribution in this effort.
R.C.A. JAIN (India): The subject as brought out in the documentation of this Agenda has been discussed in extenso in the Intergovernmental Commission, and also the Ninety-fifth Council. What we have before us now is the agreed text of the interpretation on the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources for consideration and adoption.
India has already agreed to adhere to the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources, which provides the legal framework to ensure conservation, use and unrestricted availability of plant genetic resources. We believe in the genetic diversity being the common heritage of the entire mankind, to be used for the benefit of society as a whole. We consider the agreed interpretation of the International Undertaking as an important development in the direction of wider acceptance for adherence to this undertaking.
India considers the recognition of the principle of farmers ' rights as a significant achievement of the Third Commission on Plant Genetic Resources. India has already agreed to be a member of the FAO network of base collections, and will continue to extend the necessary support to the base collection activities under FAO's proposed legal network, subject to our adherence to the Model D, with slight modifications already communicated. For in situ conservation efforts are being made in India for the creation of biosphere reserves and gene sanctuaries. These efforts will be further intensified with the possible support of FAO, IUCN, UNEP, and other international organizations.
We are however, concerned that future biotechnologies might become subject to intellectual property rights which may have adverse implications for the undertaking. FAO should closely monitor the new evolving biotechnologies, to keep the developing countries informed of progress in this field and to facilitate their use to advance sustainable agriculture in their marginal ecosystem. We, therefore, support the Resolution of the Commission for a Code of Conduct to be developed for biotechnology.
India is a member of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources, the Working Group, as well as the Council. It is in complete agreement with the two texts under consideration.
Finally, we commend both these drafts relating to the agreed interpretation of the International Undertaking and the draft Resolution regarding farmers' rights for adoption without any modification by the Conference.
Doddy SURACHMAN SUKADRI (Indonesia): The Indonesian delegation would like to inform you that we have signed the International Undertaking Base Collection. In this connection, we have decided to take Category D as our choice, based on the reality that Indonesia is blessed as one of the richest countries of genetic resources. Therefore, we have a responsibility to maintain and control the genetic resources on a sustained basis.
Indonesia also fully supports FAO in initiating steps towards animal genetic resources.
Indonesia recognizes the importance of plant and animal genetic resources for sustainable development and for the future of mankind. Indonesia is also aware of the species richness of the tropical rain forests. Accordingly, we have designated 18.8 hectares of forest for nature conservation and 30.3 million hectares as protection forests. A special directorate general has been established in the Ministry of Forestry to take care of the forest, namely the Directorate General for Nature Conservation and Forest Protection.
To conclude, our delegation would like to express our appreciation for, and full support of, the concept of farmers' rights which basically would enhance the role of farmers towards genetic resource utilization and sustainability.
Barviz VOJDANI (Iran, Islamic Republic of): Firstly, I should like to thank you for giving the floor to the delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran.
As you know, the Islamic Republic of Iran is one of the countries that has formally accepted the regulations of the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources since about four years ago. However, this Agreement certainly does not mean that we forgot the breeders' and farmers' rights. In fact, we deeply believe in the main goals of the International undertaking on
Plant Genetic Resources, concerning the explorationf collection, conservation, evaluation and utilization of the common heritage of mankind, and we have high respect for the breeders' rights as the technical users of the plant genetic resources and producers of new improved genotypes, as well as for farmers' rights, which have been arising from very ancient times.
My delegation greatly appreciates and thanks the Commission, its relevant working Group and also the Council for proposing, amending and approving the agreed interpretation of the International Undertaking with the reviews for overcoming the difficulties raised by different states, and the complementary draft Resolution, the the Appendices to document C 89/24.
On behalf of my delegation, I should like to present a short statement about the present situation of plant genetic resources, and its relevant activities and difficulties in our country.
As you know, Iran is a relatively large and geographically variable country. It is also located in one of the most important and strategic centres of origin and/or diversity for very many plant species. Fortunately, this makes our country one of the richest countries for valuable plant genetic resources. However, previous activities on different aspects of plant genetic resources have, unfortunately, been considerably restricted and limited. It is also very sad to say that various erratic factors are affecting this valuable human heritage at tremendously high rates and causing them to be in very severe danger of extinction in this particular part of the world.
My delegation is glad to express its deep thanks to God for providing us with such a valuable natural wealth in the country, and our appreciation to the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran for their high consideration and specific attention to the plant genetic resources activities during the last five years.
We can now claim that, due to the special attention of our Government, considerable technical assistance by the IBPGR and specifically the continuous and unceasing activities and attempts of the staff of the National Plant Genebank of Iran, we have a solid base and very efficient potentiality for genetic resources activity through a national network system in our country.
A large number of agriculturalists, including research staff, extension service and agricultural cooperative members, students of agricultural colleges and schools are assisting the National Plant Genebank of Iran, especially for the exploration and collection of plant genetic resources. It is clear that this huge national network system could not be successful without specific attention and investment on training and equipping the National Plant Genebank at both national and international levels.
Since, with regard to my previous words, we made serious and extended attempts at investment at national level, on behalf of my delegation I would like to draw FAO's attention and ask for very considerable investment, both financial and technical assistance, in our country by IBPGR and/or any other organization, especially UNDP. We are suggesting that an IBPGR office be established in Iran to assist us in the collection of wild species. We are also requesting considerable assistance on biotechnology at the service of our National Plant Genebank, as well as our plant breeding activities.
José TUBNO (Canada): Since Canada is one of those countries which did not express its views on this topic in the last Council, because we needed time to carry on consultations in Canada on this important topic, we very much appreciate the opportunity we have here now in this Commission to share with you the results of the consultations in Canada.
Mr Chairman, Canada is encouraged with the progress reached in the Agreed Interpretation of the undertaking. We believe this progress is a step forward towards the development of a universal system for the preservation of plant genetic diversity. The Agreed Interpretation of the Undertaking is particularly relevant considering that much of the future research for the development of new agricultural varieties and pharmaceutical products for the benefit of mankind, depends upon the acceptance of a plant genetic resource conservation system. In the spirit of participating in the creative process evolving from the discussion of this topic in the Conference, the Canadian delegation would like to contribute with some substantive comments.
Because plant genetic resource conservation and utilization are interdependent activities, the legal framework provided by the International undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources has to take into account the requirements which are indispensable for safeguarding conservational activities, while also encouraging plant breeding. Without the application of scientific knowledge, technology and financial investment to plant genetic resources, these resources are of little use to solve the pressing problems and challenges facing agriculture, medicine and other disciplines. In recognition of this concept, Mr Chairman, is that the Canadian delegation welcomes the acceptance of plant breeders' rights in the International undertaking. At the same time, we recognize also the importance of providing support to developing nations for strengthening their capacity to carry on national plant breeding programmes, especially in the centres of genetic diversity.
Mr Chairman, there is an important substantive detail that requires consideration in the International Undertaking to enhance its universal character. Countries around the world with plant breeding programmes are constantly developing breeder lines, which are germplasm in the process of being developed and therefore not covered by breeders rights. We consider that, in order to improve the transparency of the legal framework, the special situation of breeders lines should be made explicit in the Agreed Interpretation of the undertaking. Therefore, the Canadian delegation would like to propose that point B of the Agreed Interpretation should read as follows : "A state may impose only such minimum restrictions on the free exchange of materials covered by Article 2.1(a) of the International Undertaking as are necessary for it to conform to its national and international obligations" and we would like to add a sentence here, such as "germplasm that is being actively developed in plant breeding programme and that, therefore, is not covered by plant breeding rights". This is of course only a temporary restriction designed to continue encouraging plant breeding in the world. Considering that the International Undertaking is based on the accepted principle that plant genetic resources are a heritage of mankind, set out in Article one, we also hope that no country would use point B of the Agreed Interpretation as an escape clause to arbitrarily block exchanges of other raterial, such as cultivated varieties, landraces, wild varieties and widely available special genetic stocks.
Regarding the concept of farmers rights, Canada subscribes to its fundamental principles. We certainly recognize the elements on which the draft resolution is based. Nevertheless, we believe that some of the language used in the elaboration of the resolution could lend itself to different interpretations. For instance the name given to the concept does not seem specific enough. we all know that farmers have many rights, but which rights are we referring to in this resolution? To enhance the definition of the concept, we would like to propose that its name be better qualified as "Farmers Genetic Rights".
The conservation of plant genetic resources is a complex process involving many actors and diverse methods and techniques. Hence, we concur with the statement made in point B in the first part of the resolution, where the need to strenghthen training and plant survey and identification facilities in developing countries for genetic resource conservation is recognized. In light of this concept and of Article one of the Undertaking, we would like to propose that point B of the endorsed text be amended to read: "to assist qualified groups engaged in genetic resource conservation in all regions of the world" which we believe world include fanners, but also those groups which are assistant farmers, to carry on with this particular activity. Then at the end of that paragraph we would like this language: "in the protection and conservation of plant genetic resources".
Mr Chairman, Canada considers that a universal system for the conservation of plant genetic resources has to be realistic. Most farmers conserve and inprove plant germplasm basically for their own needs, not with the goal of conserving plant genetic resources as we understand the term today. It is therefore difficult to clearly understand what the resolution means when it refers to the concept of "supporting the continuation of their (farmers) contributions" in the endorsing paragraph. Surely we support the work of trusted experts, particularly the work of the FAO, the International Board for Plant Genetic Resources (IEPGR) and of many national programmes, to best assist farmers and farming communities in the protection and conservation of plant genetic resources. Perhaps the statement in this sentence should not be limited to the efforts of farmers alone but better reflect the collective effort that, in reality, takes place and that is inquired. We consider that the words "ensuring full benefits to farmers, and supporting the continuation of plant genetic resource conservation" better embodies the essence of the concept.
Finally, we would like to state our agreement with the recommendations of the Expert Consultation on Animal Genetic Resources that took place in FAO last September. We would also like to express our support to the statement just made by the distinguished delegate of France regarding the Memorandum of Understanding to be signed between FAO and the IBPGR.
Mme Maria de Lourdes DUARTE (Cap-Vert): Merci, Monsieur le Président. Permettez-nous tout d'abord d'exprimer notre reconnaissance au Secrétariat de nous avoir préparé un document simultanément complet et concis, ainsi qu'à M. Bonte-Friedheim pour sa brillante présentation. L'interprétation concertée qui nous est soumise, reconnaissant légitimement les droits tant des donateurs de matériels génétiques que des donateurs de fonds et de technologie à un dédommagement, devrait conduire à un état tel que les réserves émises et les difficultés présentées n'auraient plus de raison d'être.
Mon pays, représenté au sein du groupe de travail et aussi membre de la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques, a suivi attentivement le processus et a eu l'occasion de s'exprimer à cet égard à d'autres reprises au sein de ces organes. Toutefois, le moment venu ma délégation aimerait apporter son plein soutien à l'interprétation concertée de l'engagement international et au projet de résolution sur les droits des agriculteurs tels qu'ils figurent aux annexes 1 et 2 du document C 89/24, et elle estime qu'ils doivent être annexés à l'engagement.
Avant de terminer, nous aimerions aussi vous faire part de notre appui sur l'idée de résolution annoncée par l'Espagne, portant sur l'interprétation concertée de l'engagèrent.
Victor Eduardo MACHINEA (Argentina): Bueno, esto ha sido negociado a través de mucho tiempo. Por lo tanto, mi delegación apoya los textos de la Interpretación Concertada del Compromiso Internacional y del Proyecto de Resolución sobre los Derechos del Agricultor, y que se incorporen como anexos al Compromiso Internacional Sobre Recursos Fitogenéticos. Pero deseamos que su seguimiento, por supuesto, quede en el ámbito de la FAO. Solicitamos que esta tarea realizada en fitogenéticos se extienda al ámbito de los recursos zoogenéticos, como oportunamente lo señaláramos.
Bernd VON SYDOW (Genteny, Federal Republic of) (original language Genran):
The German delegation welcomes the efforts of FAO to coordinate and promote the maintenance and utilization of plant genetic resources. We welcome all efforts, that they as the inheritance of mankind be made usable and available worldwide. No doubt the maintenance and the utilization of genetic resources urgently needs international cooperation. The access to the existing genetic diversity and the availability of for example, the biotechnological methods for maintenance and breeding are a most important pre-requirement for the biological contribution to the solving of the world hunger problems.
It is a credit to FAO, and in particular to the Cormission on Plant Genetic Resources, that the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources, and the interpretation which we have in the document before us has been set up as a basis for fruitful international cooperation. In the light of the very different interests and circumstances, it was not easy to achieve this. We are of the opinion that the interpretation which we now have will facilitate the agreement of more countries with the International undertaking and will thus raise the efficiency of the global FAO system.
The International Convention for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV), which is supposed to protect the legitimate interests of plant breeders, takes account of the general interests in the availability of these genetic resources. At the same time it provides a basis for effective private plant breeding. Therefore, we welcome and support that part of the Interpretation which says: "Plant breeder's rights as provided under UPOV are not incompatible with the International Undertaking".
The fact that generations of farmers in both developing countries and developed countries have established with the development of primitive varieties a basis for subsequent uses is not something which anyone would disagree with. Thus it is also farmers who should benefit in the future. It will not be possible in the future either to quantify the contribution which has been made by different parts of the world.
It seems to us that it is important and correct to stress that the International Fund for Plant Genetic Resources can only be one means for promoting the maintenance and utilization of plant genetic resources. The past has shown that existing institutions and programmes can contribute very effectively to improving genetic resources. The approach should therefore also in the future be flexible in order to make best use of available financial resources. The Government of the Federal Republic of Germany is prepared to contribute further in accordance with its abilities.
Finally, the work of FAO in the area of the maintenance of plant genetic resources certainly requires further support on the part of a scientific institution. We hope that also in the future effective cooperation between the International Board for Plant Genetic Resources and FAO will be assured.
Tammie SJOBERG (Sweden): On this Agenda Item 9 I have the pleasure to speak on behalf of the Nordic countries, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.
On behalf of our delegations I would like to express our appreciation of the fact that the question of plant genetic resources has been given continued attention in the overall work of FAO. In this way FAO has focused on the necessity of further strengthening activities pertaining to collection and exchange of plant genetic resources for scientific purposes and use in plant breeding programmes, in order to improve agricultural development and food security. Furthermore FAO has focused worldwide attention on the most important subject of conservation of plant genetic resources to ensure their availability for future generations. This gives evidence of the important role FAO continues to play in this area, namely to promote international cooperation to ensure that all nations are in a position to exploit the benefits of plant genetic resources in a sustainable way.
The Nordic countries attach great importance to these questions. This is documented by the fact that the Nordic countries jointly operate a Nordic Genebank located in the south of Sweden serving the whole region since 1979. The Nordic Genebank also actively cooperates with the International Board for Plant Genetic Resources, and has international responsibility for sane major gennplasm collections. Furthermore, the Nordic countries are taking part in, and supporting on a cost-sharing basis, a 20-year project aimed at establishing a SADCC Regional Gene Bank.
The Nordic countries have taken an active part in the discussions on the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources. The governments of the Nordic countries have also adhered to the Undertaking. However, we have agreed to the Undertaking with reservation as to Article 2.1 (a) (v). The reason for this reservation was the potential inconsistency with the principle of plant breeders' rights. The Commission on Plant Genetic Resources and its Working Group have analysed such reservations, which we share with other countries.
The Working Group of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources has elaborated and proposed an interpretation of the Undertaking. We would like to thank the Chairman and the members of the Working Group for the work they have undertaken on this natter. Their work provides a basis for an agreed interpretation of the International Undertaking.
The Nordic countries consider the proposed agreement to be a well-balanced text, taking into consideration the concerns both of countries with an established private plant breeding industry and developing countries whose plant resources are not privately owned.
The wording of section (b) of the proposed agreed Interpretation solves our problems with the present wording of article 2.1 (a) of the Undertaking as it seems to be compatible with the principle of breeders' rights and thus excludes free access to property from private sources. If proposals (a), (b) and (c) will be agreed upon, the Nordic countries are now prepared to withdraw their reservation regarding the International Undertaking.
As to proposal (d), the Nordic countries share the intentions behind this proposal.
We agree with the need to find ways to strengthen scientific efforts in plant genetic resources in a manner that helps farmers, particularly those who are economically or ecologically underprivileged in developing countries.
At the same time, the Nordic countries are concerned about current threats to global plant genetic resources. A concerted effort is needed to enable financially poor and genetically rich areas to ensure the survival of the genetic heritage. This should include measures at both the international and the national level, including adequate mechanisms for financial transfers from those who benefit from the exploitation of biological diversity to the owners and the managers of biological resources.
The International Fund for Plant Genetic Resources is proposed to be one such mechanism. We doubt, however, that a fund like this will attract the additional resources needed to secure for developing countries a more equitable share of the profit from the exploitation of genetic resources.
The Nordic countries are prepared to accept the wording of proposal (d), while taking into consideration our reservation regarding the International Fund.
The concept of farmers' rights has been much discussed. The discussions have shown that there is a feeling that such a concept is valid, but there is different understanding of what should be comprised by this concept. However, the Working Group has put forward a proposal for a definition of the concept. In our opinion, the proposed definition is well-balanced. The Nordic countries are prepared to accept the proposed definition and to support the draft resolution on this matter.
Although there are signs of positive development, much more needs to be done. We believe that a fruitful way of achieving further progress would be to supply information and raise awareness of the importance of conservation and improved use of plant genetic resources. In this context, the proposed report on the State of the World's Plant Genetic Resources could prove very valuable. In carrying out this work, FAO should make efforts to ensure that this study also will contain information from countries which are not able to become members of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources.
Finally, the Nordic countries have advised the Secretariat previously that they are prepared to adhere to an International Network of Base Collections in Gene Banks. To this end, the Nordic countries are in a position to consider the proposed model (c), modified after consultations. We are waiting for the Secretariat to initiate consultations on this matter with the Nordic countries.
J. Dawson AHALT (United States of America): The United States delegation would like to compliment the FAO Secretariat on seeking to accommodate member-country concerns in the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources. We regard this issue of the utmost importance, and we appreciate the efforts of the Secretariat.
The recognition of plant breeders' rights is appreciated. As a country with an active plant breeding programme, it is important that special genetic stocks, including elite and current breeders' lines and mutants, be protected in accordance with the UPOV Convention.
Regarding the question of rights, which has been discussed by other delegations, we in the United States delegation are not certain why plant breeders' rights and farmers' rights are being discussed together. Our recollection is that most countries which had difficulties with the International Undertaking were concerned with the former, not the latter, yet the proposals before us focus much of their attention on farmers' rights. Under the present system, plant breeders' rights do not come into effect prior to a patenting process. In our view, similar protection must be accorded to germplasm that is being actively developed.
Paragraph (d) raises several questions. The definition of activities to be supported by the International Fund appears to extend beyond the domain of plant genetic resources. There are basic FAO IBPGR responsibilities which must be specified. In addition, there are other jurisdictional concerns relating to the coordination of base collections and adoption of genebank management standards which are not addressed in the agreed Interpretation. The definition of "free access" may raise more questions than it clarifies. We raise the question: is it meant to allow genetic resource centres to recover normal handling expenses, or does it suggest that additional charges may be imposed?
Finally, regarding the draft resolution on farmers' rights, we support the proposed changes offered by the delegate from Canada.
Noboru SAITO (Japan) : My country had already expressed the view in the June Council session that the proposal for an agreed Interpretation of the International Undertaking constituted progress. Under these circumstances, we are now still considering participation with the Commission and adhering to the Undertaking.
Chang Hyuk SUH (Ebrea, Republic of): To begin with, the delegation of the Republic of Korea would like to express its support for the recormendations made by the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources and endorsed by the Ninety-fifth Session of the Council, the establishment of Global Information and Early Warning Systems, suggestions for the establishment of the Advisory Committee to the Commission, and especially for the adoption of an agreed-upon interpretation of the International Undertaking and draft resolution on farmers' rights.
As noted in Appendix 1, document C 89/24, the rights of germplasm donors, donors of funds and technology should be compensated through a formulated mechanism. Also the benefits should be limited to countries adhering to the International Undertaking.
In the viewpoint that Plant Genetic Resources are a common heritage of mankind to be preserved, the draft resolution of farmers ' rights can contribute to assist farmers and farming communities in the protection and conservation of their plant genetic resources. Moreover, the farmers in the areas of diversity of plant genetic resources are needed to be assisted. Especially financial support for preserving genetic resources should be considered by the nations concerned as well as international organizations. In Korea, as there had remained a typical agricultural society for several thousand years up to very recently, many valuable genetic resources are still preserved.
However, along with the rapid economic growth and successful dissemination of newly developed varieties, most indigenous crop species including wild and closely related species are rapidly disappearing or have already reached extinction. Fortunately, the Korean Government established the Seed Management Division under the Rural Development Administration in 1976. Thereafter, integrated and systematic exploitation and conservation of crop genetic resources were implemented.
Nowadays, over 90 000 seed samples out of 133 crop species are under conservation. A new international standard scale RDA Gene Bank was constructed in 1988 and a UNDP Project for the strengthening of RDA's plant germplasm resources was begun from early this year.
Though the UNDP project for the strengthening of RDA plant germplasm resources would increase the seed sample numbers of major cultivating crops and enhance the systematized gene bank management skills, there still remains collecting some crops, medicinal herbs, wild varieties of crop species which are endemic to the Korean peninsula, and a need for more technical biological knowledge for modern sense of gene bank management.
At the same time, much easier and more reliable methods for both preservation and utilization, including the creation of new valuable variants from the exploited materials, are to be studied.
In this respect, the Republic of Korea would like to propose a "'90/'91 FAO/TCP project on Collection, Preservation, Evaluation and Utilization of Plant Genetic Resources". We look forward to FAO's positive support for this Project.
Ali ARHOUMA (Libya) (original language Arabic): My delegation considers plant genetic resources as being an area for international cooperation. We consider that one of the major challenges facing mankind is precisely the development of plant genetic resources, and the problems facing developing countries vary greatly from those facing developed countries. For example, in my country, we have difficulties in finding cereals able to resist salinity and drought. That is why we think that this sector would be of benefit for our country, and also the regional cooperation between the countries of the Maghreb for the establishment of a gene bank could be effective, in particular if the bank could have FAO assistance.
We think that FAO's role for the safeguarding of phytogenetic material is very important, crucial in fact, and I think the countries can benefit from the experience of FAO in this field.
Libya wishes to support the rights of breeders and farmers in the production of these new plants for coming generations, in particular since it is a new sector. Libya is of the opinion that the IUPGR is a very good thing and we also share the view that there is the need to protect plant genetic resources for coming generations.
Mauricio CUADRA (Nicaragua): Nuestra Delegación considera de gran valor los avances a que llegó la Comisión de Recursos Fitogenéticos en su tercera reunión, de abril de este año, cuyo informe tuvimos oportunidad de estudiar en el 95Q período de sesiones del Consejo, en junio pasado. Consideramos también y agradecemos la excelente presentación que la Secretarla nos ha hecho del documento que nos ocupa.
Al intervenir sobre este tema en ocasión del Consejo, señalábamos nuestra aceptación a los conceptos planteados y nuestra aprobación a presentar a la Conferencia, para su aprobación, los textos de la interpretación concertada del Compromiso Internacional y del proyecto de resolución sobre los derechos del agricultor.
Creemos que es sumamente importante que el Compromiso Internacional sea adoptado sin reservas por el mayor número de países. Sólo así logrará cumplir a cabalidad su objetivo y asegurar la utilización adecuada y equitativa de los recursos fitogenéticos y su conservación.
Es sabido que los países en desarrollo, poseedores de la mayor parte de estos recursos, hemos sufrido durante siglos la extracción indiscriminada de nuestros recursos, sin que después tengamos ni siquiera acceso al resultado de su producto mejorado. Estamos seguros de que la FAO debe continuar jugando un papel pionero como garante de un trato equitativo en el uso y conservación de los recursos fitogenéticos y en la transferencia de tecnologías a los países en desarrollo que permitan a estos países una utilización adecuada de los mismos.
Reiteramos, señor Presidente, que los recursos fitogenéticos deben ser patrimonio universal bajo normación internacional que asegure un adecuado aprovechamiento y una adecuada distribución a todos los países.
La conservación de los recursos genéticos y su libre intercambio no deben ser objeto de manipulación política, económica o social bajo ninguna circunstancia.
Créanos que se debe incrementar el apoyo financiero a los países en desarrollo en capacitación para el buen manejo, conservación y evaluación de los recursos genéticos. Se hace necesario que se revierta la corriente, que los países desarrollados pongan a disposición de los países en desarrollo los recursos genéticos que han obtenido durante décadas. Se debe incrementar también la cooperación entre países en desarrollo en esta área.
Finalmente, señor Presidente, nuestra Delegación desea dejar constancia de su apoyo a la Interpretación Concertada del Compromiso Internacional sobre Recursos Fitogenéticos y al Proyecto de Resolución sobre los Derechos del Agricultor, que reconoce finalmente el papel que han jugado los agricultores de nuestros países en la conservación de los recursos fitogenéticos.
Paulo Estivallet DE MESQUITA (Brazil): The Government of Brazil views with great interest the FAO's activities in the area of plant genetic resources. Concern with the preservation and the integrity of genetic resources is clearly laid down in the 1988 Constitution's chapter on the environment and a modern and efficient infrastructure has been set up to that effect. Accordingly, we have followad closely the activities of the system that the Organization has been developing since the 23rd Conference in this field.
As regards the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources, there are still sane outstanding issues. The Understanding has wide legal, financial and even ethical implications which require close scrutiny. Brazilian legislation on scientific expeditions is currently under review. A new law will establish the parameters for the conduction of scientific missions. Moreover, there are some lingering doubts about the possibility of a fair deal being struck, solely by reference to the Undertaking, between the interests of germplasm donors, breeders, farmers, and supports.
However, in recognition of the importance of international cooperation in this area, Brazilian authorities are considering the possibility of adhering to the Undertaking, and of participating in an international network of base collections in gene banks. In any case, respect for sovereignty and the need to maintain the necessary flexibility to deal with requests on a case-by-case basis are fundamental concerns for Brazil. Thus, specifically with regard to the arrangements outlined in document CPGR/87/6 for such participation, model "D" appears, in principle, to be the most suitable.
R.W.Ch. VAN DEN BERGH (Netherlands): The objectives of the Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources is to ensure the free availability of genetic resources worldwide for the further improvement of crops. The Netherlands Government supports the view that genetic resources should be seen as a "Heritage of Mankind" handed to us by previous generations and held in trust to conserve for the future. The delegation of the Netherlands is encouraged by recent discussions in the Commission on Genetic Resources supported by its Working Group.
The acceptance that Plant Breeders Rights protection in no way interferes with the availability of protected cultivars as a resource for further breeding is an important step forward. Similarly the interpretation of "special genetic stocks" is becoming more realistic.
The Netherlands, as a member of the Working Group of the Commission has contributed to the formulation of a draft resolution on Farmers' Rights as in Appendix 2.
It fully supports the notion that such a right should include: the need that conservation of landraces be globally recognized and that sufficient funds for these purposes will be available; secondly, the need to assist farmers and farming communities in all regions of the world, but especially in the areas of origin or diversity of plant genetic resources, in the protection and conservation of their plant genetic resources, and of the natural biosphere; and thirdly, the need to allow farmers, their communities, and countries in all regions, to participate fully in the benefits derived at present and in the future from improved use of plant genetic resources through plant breeding and other scientific methods.
This represents a real agreement. The need for genetic conservation is accepted by the Netherlands as a worldwide responsibility. The Netherlands provides active support through its own Centre for Genetic Resources, adhering to the principles of the Undertaking. Furthermore, it provides financial support to the International Board for Plant Genetic Resources While also in bilateral assistance genetic conservation is receiving attention.
In conclusion, we can say that we fully support the draft resolutions on the agreed interpretation and on farmers' rights.
The need for an International Fund for Genetic Resources is accepted. However, questions remain as to the most suitable form of governance of such a Fund in view of developments in other agencies involved in the conservation of biodiversity. These developments are under review, and the Netherlands Government is not yet able to make a clear commitment.
Oscar Sales PETINGA (Portugal): Monsieur le Président, intervenant pour la première fois dans cette Commission, je voudrais en profiter pour vous féliciter de votre nomination ainsi que de la façon dont vous conduisez les débats.
J'en profite aussi pour saluer le Secrétariat pour la qualité des documents qui sont à la base de nos travaux.
Le Portugal a toujours donné son appui à l'action de la FAO à propos du système mondial sur les ressources phytogénétiques.
Nous considérons qu'il s'agit d'un sujet de grande importance au niveau mondial pour lequel tous les pays doivent être concernés quels que soient leurs niveaux de développement, leurs potentialités économiques et techniques.
La récolte, la conservation, la distribution et l'utilisation des ressources phytogénétiques constituent aujourd'hui un ensemble de préoccupations qui nous concernent tous et en premier lieu les agriculteurs dont le travail doit être dirigé.
Il y a peu d'années on disait que le monde serait dominé par ceux qui auraient les ressources phytogénétiques et non les armements. Nous pensons ainsi qu'il est dangereux qu'un matériel si important pour toute l'huranité soit mis à la disposition, ainsi que géré et distribué seulement par quelques-uns, car ils restreignent l'utilisation de ressources qui doivent être considérées comme un patrimoine commun de toute l'humanité.
Récolter et conserver les ressources phytogénétiques est aujourd'hui une tâche très importante. Beaucoup de ces ressources existent cependant dans des pays qui ne possèdent pas la technique nécessaire pour effectuer cette tâche.
La communauté internationale doit collaborer à ce travail de récolte et de distribution car l'avance de la désertification, le surpâturage, les feux de brousse, l'agriculture intensive, sont en train de détruire beaucoup de ces ressources phytogénétiques.
Nous ne devons cependant pas oublier que les pays où ces ressources existent doivent avoir le droit de les utiliser à partir des centres de récolte et de conservation.
Mon pays pense qu'on doit créer des centres de stockage et de distribution écologiquement répartis dans le monde; et il n'accepte pas que nos ressources puissent être concentrées en un seul centre.
Mon pays accepte et recommande cependant qu'une certaine coopération existe entre les centres de façon telle que l'utilisation des ressources phytogénétiques soit appropriée.
Le Portugal a participé à des actions internationales sur ce sujet et a même fourni du matériel utilisé sur son territoire. Le Portugal a déjà des centres phytogénétiques alimentés par ses propres récoltes ou par des échanges avec d'autres pays.
Je veux dire pour finir que mon pays a contribué avec ses ressources dans le domaine des lupinus et d'autres protéagineuses, des céréales, notamment du blé, du seigle et de l'orge; du trifolium, du trèfle souterrain et des graminées pour les pâturages.
José Ramón LOPEZ PORTILLO) ROMANO (Mexico): Agradecemos, señor Presidente, a la Secretaría de la FAO por el excelente documento que ha puesto a nuestra disposición para la realización de nuestros trabajos.
La delegación de México, señor Presidente, recoge con gran beneplácito los resultados de la Tercera Reunión de la Comisión, que fue positiva y constructiva y que llevó finalmente al triunfo de la moderación, de la cooperación y del compromiso. La importancia de los recursos fitogenéticos para todos los países resulta evidente en el desarrollo de todos los campos de la agricultura, de la silvicultura, de la seguridad alimentaria y de la conservación del medio ambiente y el desarrollo económico viable.
En materia de recursos fitogenéticos ningún país puede pretender ser autosuficiente y la cooperación internacional, por tanto, resulta una necesidad vital, ya que todos los países eventualmente son donantes de recursos fitogenéticos, de recursos financieros, y a la vez receptores también de recursos fitogenéticos y de recursos financieros relativos.
Pero, señor Presidente, hay una tendencia creciente en el mundo a ver los problemas de la erosión genética, los problemas ecológicos, los problemas del medio ambiente, como aquéllos en donde se deben establecer o imponer restricciones que, ciertamente, tienen efectos diferentes y desiguales entre países desarrollados y países en desarrollo, porque los países desarrollados pueden pagar y pueden, quizá, realizar correcciones a sus modelos de desarrollo industrial y económico; pero para los países en desarrollo la implicación de un control y de una restricción en el uso de sus recursos implica una limitación grave para su desarrollo.
Evidentemente, una de las grandes preocupaciones en un mundo que se ve cada vez más restringido por el impacto contaminador que está teniendo la naturaleza y por tanto en su viabilidad misma, es el de cómo distribuir las cargas, de un ataque, un contrataque a este proceso. Tememos, señor Presidente, que muchos países están pensando que resulta mucho más barato controlar, restringir y hasta castigar a los países en desarrollo que hacen uso de sus recursos o que por su desarrollo crean efectos indeseables, porque esa estrategia les parece a muchos, en el corto plazo, mucho más barata; pero si observamos los efectos de castigos y restricciones implícitas o explícitas a nuestros países y el resultado sobre el medio ambiente, la preservación de la diversidad biológica, etc, creo que esa estrategia está condenada a fracasar. Y en un mundo como éste que debe retomar una idea vieja, pero vigente, de cuando se planteó la necesidad de un nuevo orden economico internacional; es decir, que tal orden tenía implicaciones positivas para todos los países y era de beneficio mutuo.
Creo que en lo que se refiere a los problemas relativos a la diversidad biológica, y en este caso a la erosión genética, y a la necesidad de su conservación, estamos hablando de un problema cuya solución es de beneficio mutuo, y que, por tanto, exige cooperación y distribución equitativa de las cargas que inplica reconocer la desigualdad entre los países. Decimos esto, señor Presidente, con el ánimo de apoyar la labor pionera de la FAO que se viene realizando desde 1947 y, en particular, la importancia y congruencia del sistema global de la FAO desarrollado a partir de 1983, que comprende el Compromiso Internacional como marco legal, la Comisión de Recursos Fitogenéticos como foro intergubernamsntal y el Fondo Internacional, como mecanismo financiero.
Se han dado muy importantes avances y los debates durante este período de sesiones nos llenan de ánimo por el apoyo extraordinario que ha tenido el Comprotiiso internacional que quizás, comparado con otros compromisos o acuerdos similares, ha recibido una sustentación mayoritaria de todos los Estados Miembros.
Ciertamente ha habido problemas de interpretación y consideramos que éstos han sido recogidos y sustancialmente resueltos en la Interpretación Concertada del Compromiso. Por la importancia de ese documento aparecido en el Apéndice 1 del documento C 89/24, apoyamos plenamente y con entusiasmo la propuesta de la delegación de España de que se incluya tal Apéndice, tal interpretación, como una Resolución sujeta a aprobación de nuestra Conferencia.
Varias delegaciones han expresado preocupación en torno a los derechos del obtentor, y consideramos que ese asunto ha sido revisado exhaustivamente, y que quizás lo dicho en la página 7 del documento 89/24 mencionado en el párrafo a) relativo a que los derechos del obtentor tal como están contemplados por la UPOV no son incompatibles con el compromiso internacional, les pueda tranquilizar y coincidir el que la interpretación cumple o satisface sus preocupaciones.
Por otra parte, la delegación de México desea apoyar también la Resolución sobre los derechos del agricultor, porque considera que en el esquema de compromiso y de cooperación internacional necesario para hacer viable el desarrollo no sólo de una parte de la humanidad sino de toda, porque toda está comprometida, es fundamental entender que tales derechos, implican un mecanismo de cooperación y de distribución equitativa de las cargas a fin de que los países en desarrollo no se vean castigados en sus perspectivas de desarrollo, que puedan explotar ampliamente sus recursos en beneficio de sus generaciones presentes y futuras, pero también sin deteriorar las condiciones futuras del desarrollo de esos países y de toda la humanidad.
Debemos también dejar bien claro que no hemos estado discutiendo, y que no se podría aceptar que se discutiera de nuevo el compromiso internacional, sino exclusivamente la Interpretación Concertada al mismo; y pedimos por tanto a todas las delegaciones que dejen saber muy claramente que están hablando exclusivamente de la Interpretación Concertada, tema de nuestro programa.
Para terminar, deseamos enlistar simplemente los apoyos de nuestra delegación a diversas actividades de la FAO en ese sentido. Uno a la publicación periódica sobre el Estado Mundial de los Recursos Fitogenéticos, que ha servido y seguramente servirá de base a las discusiones de la Comisión de Recursos Fitogenéticos. Apoyamos el establecimiento del Sistema Global de Información y del Sistema de Alerta Rápida, según el Artículo 7 del Compromiso. También la Red de Colecciones Base bajo los auspicios o jurisdicción de la FAO. Y nuestra satisfacción por los progresos realizados y las ofertas generosas de tantos países de poner sus bancos de germoplasma en dicha red, o/y del ofrecimiento de espacio y germoplasma para colecciones internacionales. El apoyo al papel de la Comisión de desarrollar acuerdos internacionales para la conservación y uso de recursos fitogenéticos, teniendo por supuesto en cuenta sus impactos económicos, sociales, legales, políticos, éticos y técnicos. Nosotros hemos apoyado en ocasiones anteriores, y lo volvemos a hacer ahora, la recomendación de que la Comisión prepare un Código de Conducta para Colectólas Internacionales de Germoplasma, y un Código de Conducta para Biotecnología, así como el que dé seguimiento al desarrollo de las nuevas biotecnologías y las implicaciones de las mismas, especialmente para los países en desarrollo. Apoyamos los trabajos de nuestra Organización para la conservación y uso de los recursos genéticos in situ, y el establecimiento de una red de áreas de conservación in situ que incluya plantas y también animales.
Aclaramos, por supuesto, que se trata de proteger ecosistemas en los que no se pueden separar los recursos genéticos vegetales y animales; y en ese sentido, expresamos nuestra inquietud porque se amplíe el sistema global de la FAO para recursos genéticos vegetales a fin de cubrir también los animales, y la conveniencia de que se amplíen gradualmente hasta cubrir eventualmente toda la diversidad biológica de interés actual o potencial para la agricultura, silvicultura, ganadería y pesca.
Ya para terminar, recientemente en el campo de la conservación y el uso de recursos fitogenéticos y de diversidad biológica en general, se han dado, se han producido y han prolif erado iniciativas de diverso tipo como respuesta sin duda al creciente interés político y social de atacar esos problemas. Pero esa proliferación quizás no haya llegado a producir una Estrategia uniforme que a todos ayude, simplifique los mecanismos y evite complicaciones. Por eso pedimos al Secretariado de la FAO que mantenga informados a los cuerpos gubernativos de nuestra Organización sobre esos desarrollos. Y en ese sentido, apoyamos las recomendaciones de la Comisión que incluya principales organizaciones involucradas con esas actividades. La forma y las implicaciones financieras de un plan de acción sobre recursos fitogenéticos que se prepare y se lleve a cabo en cooperación con dichas organizaciones.
Y, finalmente, hacemos notar que tanto ese Comité Asesor como el Plan de Acción deberían estar orientados al fomento del diálogo, la armonización de responsabilidades y a asegurar la cooperación entre todas esas organizaciones.
Mohamed Saeed HARBI (Sudan) (original language Arabic): It is obvious from this excellent document C 89/24 prepared by the Secretariat, whom we should like to thank, that we have the result of an agreed interpretation of the International Undertaking. Obviously the use of various species and their varieties and the result of bio-technology will bind us in supporting this effort. This is the attitude of a developing country such as mine.
As regards economic and social prof itability, it is clear that despite the tremendous importance of the social and economic objectives that are sought, the costly access to these resources is such that we have many problems because of the rights involved.
We agree with the objectives sought, but developing countries are finding it difficult to satisfy the terms of the Undertaking. As regards the collection and maintaining distribution of these resources, of course this difficulty is due to the limited technological, financial and scientific means we have at our disposal. What is very important for us and for the Organization is that these countries should be able to obtain access, overccming the problem of high costs. My delegation acknowledges the right of Donors of genetic resources to be fairly compensated in a simultaneous acknowledgment of the rights of farmers and breeders. This is the very basis of a new system whereby we can share the costs and the advantages of plant genetic resources.
I should like to react to what was said by the distinguished delegate of France. He mentioned certain reservations on the possible question of animal genetic resources. If I understood the delegate of France properly, he is bringing these two plant and animal genetics together. Perhaps this is an artificial dichotomy that he is referring to, because they are all part and parcel of agricultural production. My country hopes that FAO will support us, along with other organizations, in so far as concerns technology - and animal genetic technology in particular. Improvements of species and so on are important. That is all I need to say on that subject.
However, as regards plant genetic resources, the majority come from developing countries; nevertheless, there is no genuine acknowledgement or even a will fairly to compensate the producers. They need such protection, however. They are the depositories of this corpus of species. It is a question of supporting the potential of developing countries, and this should be in harmony with the International Undertaking and the support being given to the Consultative Commission.
Shahid NAJAM (Pakistan) : My delegation would like to compliment the FAO Secretariat for presenting very concisely and clearly the two items, namely the Agreed Interpretation of the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources, and a draft Resolution on Farmers' Rights, for consideration and adoption by the Conference. Indeed, FAO is doing a commendable job in terms of the development of a global system to coordinate actions in the field of plant genetic resources, and monitoring the conservation and use of biological diversity in plant genes, genotypes and gene pools at molecular, population, species and ecosystem level. This is a matter of vital significance for developing countries, particularly in the context of their technological and indigenous needs. We are confident that the FAO troika of International Undertaking, the Commission and the International Fund on Plant Genetic Resources will greatly contribute in the important and emerging field of conservation, preservation and promotion of plant genetic resources for the benefit of present and future generations.
We are fully cognizant of the fact that the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources, which, inter alia, envisages free availability of the plant genetic resources of economic and social interest, particularly for agricultural breeding and scientific purposes, involves delicate and contentious issues of private rights, national interests and international obligations. Therefore, it appears to us a perfectly plausible and viable solution, in the wake of the prevalent situation, to have recourse to an agreed interpretation of the International Undertaking and parallel recognition of farmers' rights so as to avoid possible conflicts of interest, and violation of rights and obligations of donors of germplasm and technology, and simultaneously preserve the principle of full availability of germplasms. We are pleased to note that the Working Group, the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources, and, finally, the Council in its 95th Session, where my country wes also represented, have approved and recommended the adoption of the agreed interpretation of the International undertaking and the draft resolution on the concept of farmers' rights, by the Conference.
My delegation fully supports the texts of the two documents and agrees that these be annexed to the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources.
Maris ZANNETIS (Cyprus): Cyprus is between those countries who have became members of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources, and has agreed to the Undertaking. We did so because we believe that plant genetic resources are a common heritage of mankind. Iheir conservation and free use is a matter which concerns everyone, and we believe that the Commission and the Undertaking facilitate such an objective.
We have participated in the three sessions of the Commission and we have therefore endorsed these reports. We have no difficulty to accept the new interpretation of the Undertaking. We hope that this new interpretation will facilitate the position of other countries to adhere to the Undertaking and make it indeed international.
We are also in agreement with the text of the draft resolution on Farmers' Rights and the suggestion that the text of the interpretation and the resolution will become annexes to the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources.
Marcos NIETO LARA (Cuba): No nos gusta ser extemporáneos, y le ruego que me permita felicitarlo a estas alturas de los trabajos, pero no podía dejar pasar esta ocasión. Nos complace mucho verlo presidir esta Comisión.
Desde que se levantó el tema de los recursos fitogenéticos en la Conferencia de la FAO, Cuba ha tenido una posición muy finte y muy concreta respecto al apoyo del Acuerdo Internacional sobre Recursos Fitogenéticos. A partir de ese momento, se dio a la tarea de trabajar y de apoyar las gestiones de la Secretaría en el sentido de ir consolidando progresivamente este Acuerdo; y no solamente consolidar el Acuerdo sino consolidar las acciones concretas de la Organización y de los países en la conservación y preservación de los recursos fitogenéticos como patrimonio de la humanidad.
En otras intervenciones nos hemos referido a que muchas veces se atribuye falta de recursos para impulsar un grupo mayor de actividades dentro de este programa de trabajo, y la delegación cubana ha expresado que sería conveniente estudiar alternativas de cooperación técnica entre países en desarrollo que pudieran no implicar recursos financieros netos, pero sí recursos en materia de información, quiero decir, intercambio de información, intercambio de expertos a un nivel de costo realmente mínimo.
Queremos señalar también que Cuba conjuntamente con otros países de América Latina, está trabajando en el marco del CELA en actividades de protección y conservación de recursos fitogenéticos. Creemos que, en este sentido, pudiera tratarse de buscar una mayor cooperación entre el CELA y la FAO en el marco de la Región.
Nos conplace ver que todos los debates que se han sostenido en Conferencias pasadas y reuniones de la Comisión de Recursos Fitogenéticos y en el grupo de trabajo han dado como fruto un documento para hacer más viable la inteqpretación del Acuerdo Internacional sobre Recursos Fitogenéticos. Creemos que se ha avanzado mucho y que existe la voluntad y el consenso de seguir avanzando en esta dirección. Por lo tanto, esta interpretación que se ha dado al Compromiso Internacional es expresión de una concertación y merece nuestro apoyo y reconocimiento.
Por otro lado, el hecho de tratar de proteger los derechos del agricultor constituye una novedad muy interesante, que merece también el apoyo de la delegación cubana.
Para concluir, señor Presidente, quisiéramos expresar que estamos dispuestos a trabajar y aun considerar algunas otras propuestas de resoluciones, como la que ha sido planteada por la Delegación de España, para hacer que el Compromiso sobre Recursos Fitogenéticos sea cada vez más completo y mucho más eficaz,
Sra. Olga Clemencia FERNANDEZ (Colombia): Primero que todo, quiero agradecer al Sr. Bonte Friedheim la exposición de este documento, que recoge en form adecuada el resultado de un proceso ponderado, serio y constructivo, a través del cual se ha llegado a la propuesta a esta Conferencia de aprobar la interpretación concertada del Compromiso Internacional y el proyecto de resolución solare los derechos del agricultor.
Los representantes de Colombia opinamos que, en esa forma, se facilita muy bien el retiro de algunas reservas y la adhesión de importantes paises desarrollados al Compromiso Internacional. La interpretación es equilibrada y evita una revisión del texto del Compromiso, al cual sería bastante difícil introducir cambios después de los largos debates a que todos hemos asistido. Pensamos que, de esta manera, la FAO ha avanzado muy satisfactoriamente en el cumplimiento del deseo de los Estados Miembros de coordinar las acciones en materia de recursos fitogenétioos. Esa labor de nuestra Organización podrá sentirse adelantando a través de los tres elementos básicos de que ahora se dispone: la Comisión, el Fondo Internacional y el Compromiso Internacional. Venimos participando activamente en la Comisión y considéranos que ése es un foro intergubernamental propicio para discutir asuntos técnicos, jurídicos, financieros y de políticas en general relacionadas con los recursos fitogenéticos. Apoyamos plenamente ciertas recomendaciones hechas por la Comisión con base en la labor del grupo de trabajo, recomendaciones que aparecen en el párrafo 5 de este documento. Estamos de acuerdo de que en todas estas actividades deben estar dirigidas al establecimiento de un sistema global equitativo y duradero que permita conpartir los costos y beneficios de los recursos fitogenéticos mundiales.
Por ello, así como auspiciamos la adhesión al Compromiso -ahora sabiamente interpretado- de aquellos importantes países desarrollados que aún no han podido adherirse, por razones que respetamos, sería igualmente conveniente y necesario que se facilitara y asistiera a todos los países en desarrollo para que puedan éstos también participar plenamente en todas estas actividades. Es así como nos llama la atención el contenido del párrafo 11, según el cual varios países en desarrollo no han podido adherirse al Compromiso por no estar debidamente capacitados y carecer de recursos financieros, técnicos y económicos.
No obstante la limitación de los recursos de nuestra Organización, debido sobre todo a la crisis de liquidez, los representantes de Colombia pensamos que la FAO debe ofrecer asistencia a esos países desarrollados y promover posiblemente la movilización de recursos extrapresupuestarios para que estos Estados del Tercer Mundo puedan estar en condiciones de adherirse al Compromiso, cuyos objetivos compartimos firmemente, y cumplir las obligaciones dimanantes. Creemos que el Director General ha actuado con tino, prudencia y amplia competencia en todo este proceso al presentarnos ahora los Apéndices 1 y 2 a este documento.
Pedimos a esta Conferencia apruebe el texto de la interpretación concertada del Compromiso Internacional y apruebe igualmente el proyecto de resolución sobre los derechos del agricultor; textos ambos que deberán ser incorporados como anexos al Compromiso Internacional sobre Recursos Fitogenéticos.
Queremos recordar también que en el grupo de contacto, en 1987, participó ion país no miembro de la FAO, que fue la URSS.
Apoyamos la propuesta hecha por España, como también todo lo dicho por las delegaciones de México y Cuba.
B. PALESTINI (Italy): Since it is the first time I am speaking at this meeting, allow me to congratulate you on your election and for the very efficient way you are conducting the debate.
My country fully endorses document C 89/24 on the interpretation of the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources. Italy, which has followed as a member the work of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources, has also attended its Working Group meetings.
My delegation supports the agreed interpretation of the International Undertaking and the draft resolution on Farmer's Rights. As a member of UPOV, as well, my country fully agrees on the statements reported in points (a) and (b) of Appendix 1 of the document.
My country is also willing to give technical assistance to those countries which require it in this particular field.
Manuel VIVADO (Bolivia): Indudablemente, el tema es un tema difícil y se hace evidente que la interpretación concertada fue muy necesaria ante los puntos de vista contradictorios sobre el tema que fueron expresados por los paises miembros y que se reflejan en los párrafos 7, 8, 9 y 10 del documento C 89/24. Seguramente se requerirá una mayor dedicación para conseguir un documento final que logre una ecuanimidad más precisa y un pragmatismo más claro. La interpretación de la redacción presentada en los Apéndices 1 y 2 es de particular importancia para esta Delegación, ya que en Bolivia, al igual que en otros países en desarrollo, existen también varios recursos fitogenéticos nativos que poseen un potencial grande, de significado mundial, como fuentes de alivio a la desnutrición que cunde en los países del Tercer Mundo.
Bolivia también ha estado realizando esfuerzos propios para mantener y recuperar estos recursos. Quisiera citar como ejemplo que actualmente se encuentra en creación el Centro Internacional de la Quinoa, esfuerzo que estará respaldado por los países del Grupo Andino, dentro del Acuerdo de Cartagena. Es necesario recordar que hace varias décadas la Amazonia brindó el producto de la gota para beneficio del mundo, y esto ha significado un avance muy grande en la humanidad.
He observado que el inciso d) del Apéndice 1, específicamente en la parte de redacción que dice -y cito-: "En particular, el Fondo Internacional para Recursos Fitogenéticos ya establecido por la FAO", en punto seguido, "para reflejar la responsabilidad de los países que se han beneficiado principalmente del uso del germoplasma", el Fondo "podría" -y enfatizo: "podría"- incluir contribuciones de los Gobiernos adheridos."
Al mismo tiempo, el Fondo propuesto en el párrafo 2, inciso 3, del documento, debe definirse en términos cuantitativos, así como se define que los recursos fitogenéticos son herencia común de la humanidad y que deben estar libremente disponibles. Se aclara, desde luego, en la página 8, que "libremente disponible" o "libre acceso" no significa gratuito, pero sería necesario que en el inciso d) de la página 7 se aclarara también una disponibilidad mucho más amplia hacia los países en desarrollo que hacen el aporte de su germoplasma. Esta Delegación desea expresar su acuerdo con la aclaración que ha presentado la Delegación de Checoslovaquia en las tres jerarquías de definición.
D.A. BUCKLE (United Kingdom): When so many countries asked to speak, we feared many objections to these proposals. we are glad that this has proved not to be the case.
It has already been mentioned by the representative of Spain that the UK played a part in the drafting of the contents of the appendices. It proved a difficult task. The drafts cover a number of issues important to many countries, not least the UK. In sane respects they go beyond what we would wish, but we have accepted them in a spirit of compromise in order to establish these important understandings. we make just one point: we would not favour financing the Fund by mandatory contributions.
The experience of the earlier drafting suggests that further material changes at this time could easily undermine what has already been achieved. I would urge everyone to bear this in mind in suggesting further modifications in this forum.
The question of animal genetic resources has also been raised. We believe that their preservation and conservation should be the subject of a separate commission and expert working group. In this work there may well be lessons to be learned from the experiences of the Plant Genetic Resources Group on some of the legal, economic and social aspects of these problems.
Assefa YHIALA (Ethiopia): Like all delegations which have spoken previously, the Ethiopian delegation would like to thank the FAO Secretariat and Mr Bonte-Friedheim for the introduction of the document before us. The proposed addition of the agreed Interpretation of the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources, as formulated on page 7 of document C 89/24, is a result of discussions held at various levels, including the Consultative Group, the Working Group, the last Commission and the 95th Session of the Council.
The Government decisions on which we have instructions are based on these intensive studies and the gradual consultation upon which the decisions we have are based. We feel that, since the present text which we have before us is the result of the intensive discussions which we have had over the last two or three years, and since we have participated in almost all the levels of discussions which we have had, we should like to express our support for the recommendations as contained in the document before us, C 89/24.
We also agree to the annexation of the resolution on the agreed Interpretation and the resolution annexed to the document as called for by Mr Bonte-Friedheim. We have no objection to that, but at this late stage there seems to be some divergence and some changes being recommended. If this continues, we might be forced to reserve our position because we are obliged to stick to the document before us, on which our instructions are based. Any change proposed might prolong the discussion and hinder our position because we might be obliged to refer back to our own authorities before accepting any change.
Finally, I should like to thank the Secretariat for the contribution they have made. We feel that this document will take us a step forward from the level we were at some two years ago.
E. DETRAUX (Belgique): La conservation des ressources phytogénétiques est, vous le savez, d'une importance primordiale et nous nous félicitons du travail effectué par la FAO à cet égard. La Belgique adhère déjà à l'engagement international tout en ayant exprimé des réserves. Nous sommes le dernier membre de la CEE à ne pas faire partie de la Commission. J'ai le plaisir de vous annoncer notre intention d'en faire désormais partie. Pour ce qui est de l'interprétation concernant l'engagement international, nous sommes en général satisfaits de son contenu, tout en soulignant plus particulièrement les paragraphes a) et c). Toutefois, pour ce qui est du point d), nous estimons que le mot "contrôler" n'est pas approprié et nous exprimons une réserve à son égard.
Quant aux contributions et au Fonds, il est bien entendu qu'elles ne pourront être que volontaires.
Enfin, pour ce qui est du droit des agriculteurs, nos remarques à cet égard vont dans un sens similaire à celles exprimées par la France.
Pisan LEUTONGCHARG (Thailand) : Thailand, as a member of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources Working Group, and having a wide diversification of food crops, especially rice varieties and tropical fruits, recognized the International undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources as an important international coordination. From the past to the present, Thailand has exchanged quite a number of plant genetic resources for research and breeding purposes with many countries in Asia and other regions of the world through the coordination of FAO.
Regarding document C 89/24 before us, my delegation would like to make the following comments. Firstly, Thailand has no difficulty in giving full endorsement to the agreed Interpretation of the internationl Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources. My delegation considers that the agreed Interpretation is very useful for international coordination in this matter and gives wider acceptance to the countries which have not yet adhered to the International Undertaking. Secondly, my delegation fully supports the draft resolution on farmers' rights, as contained in Appendix 2 of this document.
Crispus R.J. NYAGA (Kenya) : I thank you, Mr Chairman, for allowing my delegation to contribute to this important and rich discussion.
The Kenyan delegation appreciates all the efforts made by FAO in developing a global system to coordinate action in the field of plant genetic resources through the establishment of the International Undertaking, the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources and the International Fund for Plant Genetic Resources. we agree that this is a major step in handling the very important issue of our heritage of plant genetic resources for the benefit of present and future generations.
The Kenyan delegation has studied in detail the text of the agreed Interpretation of the International Undertaking in Appendix 1 of document C 89/24 and the draft resolution on farmers' rights which is contained in Appendix 2 of the same document. we are satisfied that, while ensuring the unrestricted availability of germplasm, provisions have been made to recognize the rights of both donors of germplasm and donors of funds and technologies to ensure that both are compensated.
The modalities for compensation in respect of farmers' rights are acceptable to my delegation in so far as they are geared to support plant genetic conservation and management and the utilization programmes within developing countries, including the intensified education programmes for specialists and the improvement of plant breeding and seed production in developing countries.
The Kenyan delegation therefore concurs with the recommendation that the text of both the agreed Interpretation of the International Undertaking and the draft resolution on farmers' rights should be adopted as annexes to the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources.
Alberto MURILLO (Venezuela). Deseamos, señor Presidente, felicitar a la Secretaria por el documento presentado.
Estamos de acuerdo y apoyamos la recomendación y especialmente el párrafo 5 del documento. Igualmente quisiéramos apoyar la Interpretación Concertada del Compromiso Internacional, así como el Proyecto de Resolución y veríamos con agrado su incorporación al Compromiso Internacional sobre Recursos Fitogenéticos..
Por último desearíamos también que este Compromiso fuese extendido a los Recursos Zoogenéticos.
Yun Su CHUNG (Korea, Democratic People's Republic of): First of all, I would like to congratulate you on your election as Chairman of this Commission. Also in the name of my delegation of the D.P. Republic of Korea, I express thanks to the Secretariat of the FAO for their presentation of the very variable and comprehensive document on the Plant Genetic Resources.
My country is a member of Committee on Plant Genetic Resoures of the FAO and also adheres to the uncdertaking under Plant Genetic Resources.
The delegation of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea fully supports the intimation and interpretation of the undertaking on the Plant Genetic Resources. My Government, the People's Republic of Korea, already attaches great attention to plant genetic resources in order to increase food and agricultural production. My country will do its best to strengthen the cooperation in the field of Plant Genetic Resources through the activity of FAO in international Plant Genetic Resources.
Russell R. MULELE (Zambia): I will be very brief. First, I would like to express ray gratitude to the Secretariat for the very good documentation and the clear manner in which the Assistant Director-General, Agriculture Department, introduced the subject. I would like to endorse the interpretation and the draft of the resolution of the document under discussion. However, I would like to stress the importance of establishing and maintaining closer linkages and liaison between the FAO and other organizations in this field which nay be national, regional and international bodies. In our view, this is important so as to avoid duplication and rivalry.
We are pleased to note the FAO's proposed memorandum of understanding with the International Board for Plant Genetic Resources in this regard.
Moukia Mbome GOTTLIEB (Cameroun) : La délégation du Cameroun adresse ses compliments au Secrétariat, à la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques et à son groupe de travail, ainsi qu'au Conseil, qui ont beaucoup travaillé et permis que le texte de l'interprétation concertée de l'Engagement international soit examiné pendant cette session et recommandé que le projet de résolution sur le droit des agriculteurs le soit également et soit adopté par la Conférence.
Le Cameroun a adhéré à l'Engagement international de la FAO sur les ressources phytogénétiques en décembre 1984. Il est membre de la Commission des ressources phytogénétiques et l'Institut de recherches agronomiques de notre pays est régulièrement invité aux réunions de la Commission et il en reçoit les rapports.
La position du Cameroun sur le libre accès au matériel génétique d'un pays membre ne devrait se faire qu'après avoir rempli toutes les formalités de contrôle propres à ce pays, ceci dans le cadre du respect de la souveraineté nationale.
Nous espérons et souhaitons que les pays qui avaient émis des réserves sur le principe de libre accès aux ressources phytogénétiques les retirent après l'interprétation de l'Engagement et la reconnaissance des droits des obtenteurs et des agriculteurs.
Nous croyons que les pays qui n'avaient pas encore arrêté leur position l'ont fait après et suivront la-recommandation du Conseil de juin dernier pour l'adoption de ces textes. /
Pat Roy MOONET (Observer for IOCU) : From some of the references made earlier today on the role of farmers' rights, I was afraid there might be some misinterpretation of some of the discussion that took place during the Third Session of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources. Farmers' rights was never put solely in the context of conservation. It was also in the context of developers, in creators of genetic diversity. Farmers' rights was seen to be the work being done by farmers currently not simply historically. When scientists go collecting in the Third World for plant genetic resources, they do not collect ten thousand year old seed; they collect the currently developed modern material developed by farmers for the current growing
1 Texte reçu avec demande d'insertion au procès-verbal season. This should always be understood. In fact the tragedy of the work being done now in many quarters related to plant breeders' rights is that it seems to allow for the pattern being of almost every kind of biological product and process, and only excludes the products of the genius of farmers around the world who are currently, with current wisdom, developing new material. Farmers' rights then should not be seen as simply a historic obligation of sane kind or romantic initiatives of sane kind, but is in fact a recognition of the genius of farmers today developing new material for the entire world.
D.A. BUCKLE (United Kingdom): A very brief point. I think the distinguished delegates from France and Belgium have made reference to the word "controlled" in sub-para (d) of Annex 1. I think the equivalent English translation appears to be "monitored", and so maybe something needs to be looked at there.
C.H. BONTE-FRIEDHEIM (Assistant Director-General, Agriculture Department) :
Mr Chairman, on behalf of the Secretariat, I would like to thank all speakers who participated in the debate on this very important item. I think the Secretariat would like to join those who have expressed their great satisfaction and pride that we have made considerable steps forward in the last two years. I also would like to thank those who have already in their statements provided some of the answers to some of the problems which have been raised.
Mr Chairman, out of the forty-one statements which we have heard, six countries had reservations in some form or another or amendments to the texts in front of us. As I pointed out at the beginning, it was a long process to arrive at where we are today. The two texts in front of you and one to be changed into a resolution, the text on the agreed interpretation as well as on the resolution on farmers' rights, are certainly not the most perfect and they certainly can be improved but we have grave doubts that they can be improved now and during this Conference. The process which we have is a Working Group of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources, the Commission itself, COAG, Council and then Conference, so on behalf of the Secretariat I would plead with those who have made specific proposals for amendment of the texts to not raise them when the resolution is being adopted. On behalf of the Secretariat, we will prepare a paper for the next meeting of the Working Group to consider them and to see whether there will be agreement, because most of the points have been discussed at length in the Working Group and in the Commissions, and it is a compromise in many respects, and I do not think that a meeting now of a Drafting Committee or of a Contact Group with non-specialists can improve the texts that we have in front of us and get consensus and agreement, and it is a conpremise in many respects, and I do not think that a meeting now of a Drafting Committee or of a Contact Group with non-specialists can improve the texts that we have in front of us and get consensus and agreement.
The delegate of Ethiopia made it quite clear that many representatives here, and many distinguished delegates, have the agreement of their governments on the texts in front of you and not of any amended text. Therefore, on behalf of the Secretariat, I hope it will be acceptable that those specific amendments which have been made will be considered in the next meeting of the Working Group and then will go forward through the whole procedure which means, I hope, that this Conference will be able to adopt both resolutions, the one resolution proposed by Spain with regard to the agreed interpretation, and the other draft resolution on farmers' rights which is already in your document.
Mr Chairman, I would like to say a few words on some of the points that have been made. First of all, I am indebted to the delegate of the United Kingdom who pointed out that there is a difference between the French word and the English word in (d) of Appendix 1, and I can confirm here that it is the English word which is the correct word; it says "monitored", and the French word must be adjusted to reflect "monitored" and not to say "controlled". I hope this will take care of the reservation by both France and Belgium.
The delegate of Australia has mentioned that in his country there are state governments and private firms that have plant genetic resources under their control. It says of course, in paragraph 5 of the International Undertaking on Plant Genetic Resources as adopted by Conference and I will read it: "It will be the policy of adhering governments and institutions having plant genetic resources under their control to allow access" - not under somebody else's control, it says "their control". So I hope this will be acceptable for those who have reservations about some genetic resources that they, the governments, cannot control.
The distinguished delegate of Czechoslovakia and the distinguished delegate f rom Bolivia and also Canada have talked about maybe there should be something done about breeders' lines and about germ-plasm which is, at the moment, used for the active development of plant or with implant breeding programmes. In my own view, and it is a personal view, the text as it stands now covers it, and I cannot see how anybody can request something for which he does not have a name because it is secret and in most plant breeeders ' programmes these germ-plasms are his own secret and there is no knowledge about what he uses, so how anybody can ask to please have the material which he uses at the moment without identifying it specifically, I cannot see, but again I hope that this will be discussed in the Working Group, and it will be seen whether any amendment to this can take place.
The French delegation with regard to the resolution on farmers' rights has made some proposals for amendment in the section on "considering that"; modern day section on endorsing and considering that, and the way I have understood it, it deals with (b) and (c) of the second part of that resolution.
In the discussions of the Working Group and in the Commission, and in the English text, (b) quite clearly relates to the past. It says "the contribution of whose farmers has not been sufficiently recognized or rewarded". That is in the past, whereas in (c) we talk about the future, where it is stated "the farmers, especially those in developing countries, should benefit" which means benefit in the future. They are two different ideas, and I do not think you can say one is redundant and it is covered by the others.
I have clearly noted that the words "farmers' rights" are not the best. There has been some discussion as to who are farmers and how one defines a farmer. There are many different forms of farmers' rights. I think it is quite clear that here we are talking about plant genetic resources, but we shall report this view to the Working Group and have them look at it to see if they can come up with better words than "farmers' rights". So far we have been unable to do so.
Similarly Canada nade a proposal with regard to point (b) of the farmers' rights resolution under "Endorses", which tries to widen the scope of "farming communities". To me, a farming community is not only a community of farmers but also everybody who works in the rural area. But again I do not want to answer these points for the Working Group. I would plead with everybody to leave this to the Working Group to consider and see if they can agree to come up with some improvenents.
There were three other major comments made, and I should like to confirm the Secretariat's understanding.
First, I confirm that we are actively cooperating and collaborating to define the Memorandum of Understanding with the IBPGR. It was decided, and it will be done, that the Working Group of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources will be involved in the final version of this Memorandum of Understanding. A meeting took place at the beginning of this month in Washington together with the CGIAR and the IBPGR, and we also have agreement on the present state of affairs from the OGIAR.
The second comment concerns a point on biotechnology. The FAO Secretariat joins in the fear that if care is not taken there will be losers on biotechnology, not only gainers, and we feel it is this Organization's task to ensure that there will not be too many losers, and if possible that there will .be no losers. Here FAO will do its best to provide information, to inform all member countries cm what is happening in the various fields of biotechnology.
The Secretariat has also noted the many references to the wide field of animal genetic resources and that this Organization must do something. This was not a topic here, and certainly there was no agreement in Commission I on how this should be handled, and there will be certain other fora where this will be discussed, but we have noted the frequent references in statements to animal genetic resources.
My last point is to welcome Belgium as the youngest member of the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources.
CHAIRMAN: I thank Mr Bonte-Friedheim for his answers to the Commission. Dr Bonte-Friedheim made a very constructive suggestion to us to further the work being done by the Working Group and the Commission on Plant Genetic Resources, that is that if possible we adopt the resolution contained in C 89/24 and the resolution that is going to be presented to us by the Spanish delegation which actually reflects the agreed consensus, the agreed intepretation on the Undertaking. It is suggested that we adopt that by consensus and that all the amendments, proposals and suggestions on the two documents be conveyed to the Working Group on Genetic Resources for further study and analysis.
Of course, the process is a dynamic one, and when we accept this resolution nobody is engaging the position of its country forever, we are still open to further negotiations, further changes and progress.
If that proposal is acceptable we shall be discussing those two resolutions in the agreed form in the afternoon of Wednesday, 22 November. On that occasion we hope that Dr Bonte-Friedheim will be in a position to present this commission with an indication or perhaps a comprehensive paper on the various amendments, proposals and suggestions for alterations. Is that generally agreed by the Commission? I see no opposition to that idea, so I think we can accept Dr Bonte-Friedheim's proposal.
Irte have six resolutions yet to be discussed, one resolution on the occupied territories, one resolution on the environment, two resolutions on genetic resources, and two resolutions still to be presented, one on women in agriculture and the other on pesticides.
we should like to have those six resolutions discussed on Wednesday, 22 November, so it would be, most helpful if the two resolutions which have not already been presented, one on women in agriculture and the other on pesticides, could be presented as soon as possible so that they may be conveyed to and studied by the Resolution Committee.
Horacio CARANDANG (Philippines): I should like to take this opportunity to present a resolution on the inclusion of prior informed consent in the International Code of Conduct on the Distribution and Use of Pesticides. I will not present the substance of this resolution, but just say that it will be on this topic and it will be in conformity with the consensus arrived at in the various meetings of COAG and in the Council regarding this.
CHAIRMAN: Now the only resolution that is missing that we expect to have for discussion is the resolution on the integration of women into agriculture and rural development.
Sra. Yolanda GAGO PEREZ (Costa Rica): Deseo presentar un Proyecto de Resolución relacionado con el Plan de Acción para la Integración de la Mujer en el Desarrollo. Esta Resolución reafirma el empeño de la Organización en implementar con efectividad el Plan de Acción para la Integración de la Mujer en el Desarrollo. Como es sabido, dicho Plan de Acción fue aprobado por el Consejo en noviembre de 1988, recomendándose la realización de un informe de progreso para su presentación en la 25 a sesión de la Conferencia de la FAO.
La Resolución pone énfasis en el empeño de la Organización en continuar los esfuerzos para la integración del tema de la mujer rural en todos los aspectos del trabajo de la FAO, y en la importancia del trabajo a llevarse a cabo por los diferentes servicios y divisiones técnicas de la FAO como parte integrante de su tarea diaria, y no requiere la asignación de recursos extraordinarios del Programa Regular. A este respecto, la reorientación de las actividades de campo y del Program Regular, lo cual reforzará la implementación de estrategias para la integración de la mujer en el desarrollo, puede realizarse con efectividad sin necesidad de recursos presupuestarios adicionales.
Diversos países se añadirán a este Proyecto durante la discusión del tema 11 de la Agenda de esta Comisión.
The meeting rose at 17.15 hours
La séance est levée 17 h 15
Se levanta la sesión a las 17.15 horas
