On September 3, 2023, a significant step towards strengthening mutual cooperation in the field of agriculture was taken as a delegation from the Government of Shandong Province, China, led by the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the People’s Congress of Dezhou City, Shandong Province, Tian Weidun, visited the NCJSC “S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University.” This visit marked a pivotal moment in the ongoing partnership between these two regions, with the aim of enhancing agricultural research and development.
Shandong Province, located in eastern China, is renowned for its well-established agro-industrial sector. It has a rich history dating back to ancient times as a major grain producer with extensive grain storage facilities. Dezhou City, a prefecture in the northwest of Shandong Province, adds to the region’s allure as a tourist center with a wealth of historical and cultural heritage sites.
One noteworthy aspect of this collaboration is the involvement of “Shisin,” the largest potato cultivation corporation in China. This corporation has been actively engaged with S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University since 2017, working together on joint scientific projects under the “One Belt – One Road” initiative. The collaborative efforts have borne fruit in the form of the registration and successful cultivation of two new potato varieties in Kazakhstan, demonstrating the positive impact of cross-border agricultural cooperation.
The visit by the Shandong Province delegation served as an opportunity for key stakeholders to come together and discuss the future prospects of their collaboration. A roundtable discussion took place, featuring notable figures such as the Vice-Rector for Scientific and Innovative Activities, Tokbergenov I.T., the Dean of the Faculty of Agronomy, Stybayev G.Zh., the Head of the Department of Biology, Plant Protection, and Quarantine, Baytelenova A.A., the leader of the 3M/23 scientific program, Sibataev A.K., and the leading research fellow of the 3M/23 scientific program, Khasanov V.T.
The primary focus of the discussion was the potential expansion of their cooperation on a larger scale. A groundbreaking proposal emerged during the meeting: the creation of a joint scientific center for potato breeding and seed production. This ambitious venture seeks to harness the collective expertise of both regions to develop innovative solutions in potato cultivation and seed production. Additionally, plans were set in motion to establish a joint platform dedicated to fostering scientific exchange and cooperation. This platform will facilitate the exchange of knowledge, the training of highly qualified personnel, and the development of cutting-edge agricultural technologies within the field of agronomy.
The culmination of this momentous visit was the signing of a memorandum of cooperation between S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University and the Shisin Corporation. This memorandum solidifies their commitment to furthering the cultivation of potatoes, a vital crop with significant global importance.
In conclusion, the visit of the Shandong Province delegation to the S. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University represents a significant stride towards advancing agricultural collaboration between these regions. The joint efforts in potato cultivation and seed production, as well as the establishment of a platform for scientific exchange, hold the promise of fostering innovation and growth in the field of agronomy. This partnership is a shining example of international cooperation aimed at addressing critical agricultural challenges in an increasingly interconnected world.
