A high-level delegation of international scientists recently visited Abu Dhabi to discuss issues related to plant diseases and methods to control them using the appropriate mechanisms and innovative methods.

Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority (ADFCA) played host to the visitors once again affirming its commitment to sustainable agricultural development and scientific research.

The ADFCA also held a day of workshops entitled "Integrated Management of Pest Control," at the Department of Agricultural Research facility in Al Ain where the visiting delegation, which included scientists from the US, Australia, Saudi Arabia and Oman, gave key presentations.
 
The scientists also submitted a series of recommendations to chart a road map for agricultural research and the areas proposed for development of pest control methods in Abu Dhabi.

Key recommendations were made for the transfer of modern applications in areas such as anti-insect palm excavators, fruit insects, pests and diseases associated with greenhouses, as well as identifying new ways to deal with Varroa Mites.

The scientists also emphasised the need for research to find a strain of bees that is able to adapt to the local environment to produce honey of a high quality as an alternative to the annual import of honey from outside the country.

The delegation was later shown the framework for the strategic plans of ADFCA’s department of agricultural research, the nature of the research programs that take place and the areas where scientific and technical possibilities are available, in addition to units of plant research and agricultural fields of various subsidiaries.

Receiving the visitors, Mohamed Jalal Al Reyaysa, the director of communication and community service, ADFCA, emphasized the company’s dedication to serving the government’s sustainability strategy for the agricultural sector.

He also highlighted their commitment to attracting leading experts in the areas of agriculture and research globally to develop the capacity of Abu Dhabi farmers and motivate them to use the latest technologies in their farms.

Al Reyaysa said during their field visit the scientists held a number of panel discussion sessions with the Al Ain research center’s technical staff.-TradeArabia News Service