The semiarid climate is one of the main themes of the Summit of South American-Arab countries, which began today, in BrasÀlia. According to the Chief Adviser for International Issues of Brazil’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MCT), Everton Lucero, the cooperation in this area is of both countries’ interest.
He added that research institutes of Brazil, South American and Arab countries will work together on this issue.
A seminary that occurred in Fortaleza, Northeastern Brazil, in September of 2004, gathered experts to discuss the technology used in the semiarid, and in the management of water resources.
“It was a preparatory meeting for this Summit that is now happening, and it was specifically about science and technology. The knowledge and experience exchange started in that seminary in Fortaleza, and afterwards, scientific communities of both regions started contacting each other to identify capacities and verify the interest to develop joint projects,” explained Lucero.
According to him, the dialog and experience exchange occurs with practically all Arab countries. “We believe there’s a great potential that will help us obtain concrete results,” he said.
Lucero mentioned the development of drought-resistant plants as a common interest in the biotechnology field.
“We are qualified, especially through EMBRAPA – (Brazilian Agricultural Research Company). Biotechnology can be an area where we can join expertise and develop projects together,” he affirmed.
The objective of the Summit, according to Lucero, is to politically reinforce these interests.
“We expect the Summit to give an impulse to the cooperation in the areas of science and technology.” Lucero recalled that the semiarid and the desertification are worries common to both regions.
Agência Brasil