First CGIAR Global Leadership Team Retreat Paves the Way for the 2025–2030 Research and Innovation Portfolio

The CGIAR Global Leadership Team recently gathered in Lima, Peru, for a significant retreat focused on finalizing the organization’s 2025–2030 Research and Innovation Portfolio. The retreat brought together key decision-makers, including Directors General from CGIAR Centers, with the common goal of shaping the future of global agricultural research and transformation.

Ismahane Elouafi, CGIAR’s Chief Scientist, expressed her gratitude for being part of this monumental event, which serves as a critical step in aligning the organization’s strategic initiatives. With the help of CGIAR’s leadership team, the retreat facilitated unified decision-making to drive research efforts aimed at addressing global agricultural challenges.

Special recognition was given to Simon Heck, Director General of the International Potato Center (CIP), for his team’s hospitality in hosting the event. Elouafi also praised the outstanding contributions of CGIAR scientists over the past eight months, acknowledging their efforts in designing the forward-looking Research and Innovation Portfolio.

The CGIAR’s commitment to science and innovation continues to shape the future of global food systems. As the organization prepares for the official launch of the 2025–2030 Portfolio, this retreat underscores the importance of collaboration, strategic planning, and innovation to drive meaningful change in agriculture.

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Viktor Kovalev CEO
POTATOES NEWS Viktor Kovalev is the founder of Potatoes.News and the creator of the International Potato Tour (IPT) — a global multimedia project that connects potato farmers, processors, researchers, and agribusiness companies across more than 20 countries. Viktor writes about potato production, processing technologies, storage, seed breeding, export markets, innovations, and sustainable agriculture. His work combines journalism, field research, and video storytelling, giving readers and viewers a unique perspective on the global potato industry. Areas of expertise: Global potato market trends Seed potato production and certification Potato processing (chips, flakes, fries, starch) Smart farming and agri-technologies Storage, logistics, and export Interviews and field reports from leading producers