For more on the biotech industry's US-backed push in Africa - http://www.gmwatch.org/africa.asp
EXTRACT FROM SPEECH: We have also set our sights on Africa with a multifaceted effort underway to help the continent overcome agricultural challenges and feed its population.
Last year I was in Africa twice.
From training African science to hosting biotechnology workshops they are committed to this cause. We are helping African policymakers to understand the enormous potential of biotech crops that can literally make a lifesaving difference. And we are transferring new technologies to Africa by training their top scientists.
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Transcript of remarks by agriculture secretary Mike Johanns world food prize symposium
Des Moines, Iowa, 23.oct.06 United States Department of Agriculture [via Agnet]
[extract only. full statement: http://archives.foodsafetynetwork.ca/agnet/2006/10-2006/agnet_october_23.htm ]
[US SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE] MIKE JOHANNS: Yesterday morning the symposium opened with a special session sponsored by USDA on the growing U.S./India Agricultural Knowledge Initiative. President Bush and India's Prime Minister directed USDA and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research to lead this effort. Through it we provide support to many agricultural universities in India. The United States has pledged $24 million to support this venture.
The purpose of the initiative is broad and it includes promoting food security, increasing technology transfer, supporting India's integration into the global economy, and reinvigorating U.S. and Indian university partnerships.
Iraq is another country with the potential for great agricultural advancements, and we are committed to help, do all we can so Iraq can realize its potential. Iraqi agriculture once the lifeblood of the country's economy, was choked out by years of neglect. Agriculture is the second largest contributor to the Iraqi economy, only behind oil. So revitalization is crucial to ensure both a plentiful food supply and stable economy.
This summer I visited Iraq for signing an agreement to pursue a program called the Iraq Agriculture Extension Revitalization Project. Through this program our Land Grant Universities will train Iraqis to become extension agents. These agents will in turn provide the technical assistance that is so necessary to Iraqi farmers. The goal is to bring new life into Iraq's fertile fields and we believe we can do it.
We have also set our sights on Africa with a multifaceted effort underway to help the continent overcome agricultural challenges and feed its population.
Last year I was in Africa twice.
From training African science to hosting biotechnology workshops they are committed to this cause. We are helping African policymakers to understand the enormous potential of biotech crops that can literally make a lifesaving difference. And we are transferring new technologies to Africa by training their top scientists.
The board for International Food and Agricultural Development, which is meeting in conjunction with this year's symposium will discuss the potential for a green revolution in Africa. The board assists the U.S. Agency for International Development in fully engaging Land Grant Universities in foreign assistance efforts.
The academic community has stepped up to provide international assistance in really magnificent ways. And yet I hope my friends in academia accept the challenge to go even further, to seek innovative approaches to reducing hunger in Africa on that continent, but beyond.