Tehran - Iran and Brunei are preparing to expand agricultural research and technology cooperation, with agricultural biotechnology, advanced farming technologies and joint research initiatives topping the agenda, according to an Iranian agriculture official.

 

Reyhaneh Barati, head of the Communications and International Relations Group at Iran’s Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organization (AREEO), said the proposed partnership would be tailored to Brunei’s agricultural needs and Iran’s scientific and technological capabilities.

 

Speaking to IANA, Barati said Brunei had expressed interest in a broad range of agricultural biotechnology applications, including biotechnology-based crop production, advanced breeding techniques, the development of biological agricultural inputs, plant tissue culture and technologies to boost productivity and improve the sustainability of agricultural production.

 

Iran’s Agricultural Biotechnology Research Institute will spearhead the initial phase of cooperation, reflecting agricultural biotechnology’s status as Brunei’s top priority, Barati said.

 

She added that AREEO’s extensive network of specialized research institutes, skilled researchers, experience in adapting technologies to local conditions and track record in international research projects provided a solid foundation for the partnership.

 

Other AREEO institutes and research centers could join as the two sides identify and agree on additional areas of cooperation, she said.

 

Barati said AREEO aimed to build long-term, results-driven international partnerships that translate scientific cooperation into practical outcomes and economic value.

 

Both sides have designated representatives and contact points to streamline communication, coordinate follow-up and advance discussions on potential joint activities, she added.