Memorandum of Understanding
Between
Institute of Bast Fiber Crops
Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences
and
International Natural Fiber Organization
In July 2019 a Memorandum of Understanding was reached between the Institute of Bast Fiber Crops of the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences (IBFC-CAAS) and International Natural Fiber Organization (INFO), in the spirit of friendship and with mutual interest in cooperation. IBFC-CAAS and INFO have many areas of common interest and in some of these areas, the degree of mutual interest is so great that considerable advantage may be gained from their pursuit on a collaborative basis, enter into this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote collaboration and agreed as follows.
PURPOSE
- A mean to increase the international effectiveness of research and development of a specific group of natural fibers of mutual interest by promoting close multidisciplinary collaboration between policymakers, scientists and engineers associated with these two institutions.
- A mean to explore the potential for the establishment of an international centre for futures studies and sustainable management practices related to a specific group of natural fibers of mutual interest.
- A mean to stimulate capacity development and training of policy makers, scientists and engineers to the many disciplines concerned in the specific group of natural fibers of mutual interest.
- A mean to stimulate cooperation in technology development for upgrading and modernization from crops to products related to a specific group of natural fibers of mutual interest.
Progress to date:
IBFC-CAAS have undertaken several activities such as organizing conferences, seminars and supported the organization meetings of the Inter-Governmental Group on Hard Fibers (Abaca, Coir and Sisal fiber) and Jute, Kenaf and Allied Fiber (jointly called JACKS+ fibers) of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
In addition has initiated activities to create South-South Cooperation projects between JACKS+ fiber producer countries. The partnership will intensify activities in the coming years to strengthen the international position of JACKS+ fibers in the context of Sustainable (People, Planet and Prosperity for All), and Green Economic development.