On the wall of Professor Zhang Zhengmao’s office at Northwest A&F University hangs a map of Central Asia, dotted with marks of his numerous visits. “I’ve been to 10 places in Kazakhstan,” Zhang shares with a proud smile.
Kazakhstan, renowned as one of the world’s major grain exporters, holds fertile soil and abundant light and heat resources—ideal conditions for wheat cultivation. However, the local wheat varieties face challenges with disease resistance and lodging. “China has conducted extensive research in these areas,” notes Zhang. “The complementary advantages of China and Kazakhstan have made cooperation a natural fit.”
In 2017, Zhang embarked on his first journey to Kazakhstan to participate in the China-Kazakhstan Agricultural Science and Technology Demonstration Park construction project. This initiative, under the framework of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO), aims to bolster agricultural collaboration between China and Central Asian countries.
The demonstration park serves as a platform for sharing China’s advances in agricultural technology, improving wheat varieties, and enhancing cultivation techniques. “Through joint efforts, we are working to increase wheat yields and improve resistance to diseases,” Zhang explains. “This not only benefits Kazakhstan’s agricultural sector but also contributes to food security in the region.”
The cooperation extends beyond wheat. Research and development in areas such as irrigation, pest control, and sustainable farming practices are also underway. “Our goal is to promote shared growth and development,” says Zhang. “By combining resources and expertise, we can achieve greater outcomes than working individually.”
The agricultural collaboration epitomizes the spirit of the SCO, fostering mutual trust, equality, and shared prosperity among member nations. As Zhang’s map continues to fill with new marks, it symbolizes the growing ties and fruitful partnerships between China and Central Asia.
Reference(s):
China-Central Asia agricultural cooperation through SCO yields fruits
cgtn.com
