On November 4th, Dr. Yang Yaodong, Dr. Wang Yong and several researchers from the Coconut Research Center of the CRICATAS met with Prof. Luo Jie from Hainan University, Mr. Vincent and Dr. Mathieu from Bioversity, Ms. Mridula from International Coconut Community(ICC) , Dr. Baudouin and Dr. Andrea from CIRAD, Dr. Lalith from the Coconut Research Institute of Sri Lanka and others held a a network seminar on the joint development of coconut pan-genome collaborative research.

The meeting was chaired by Dr. Vincent. First Dr. Yaodong Yang gave an overview of the Coconut Pan-Genome project, from the background to the related matters of cooperation, and Dr. Luo Jie introduced the latest progress in the research of coconut metabolome. After then, the experts from France, India, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Côte d’Ivoire and other countries as well as representatives of the International Coconut Community and Bioversity had an in-depth discussion on the relevant cooperation content of coconut pan-genome research. During the in-depth discussion, experts revolved around the importance of the cooperation,the collection and processing of germplasm resources, preliminary evaluation, technology roadmap and data sharing and other aspects, and put forward the corresponding opinions and suggestions. The participating experts were willing to participate in this cooperative study and provide necessary assistance.The experts all agreed that this work would be the solid base for future coconut genetic breeding technology development and theoretical innovation, which would greatly promote the breeding of new coconut varieties and the healthy development of the coconut industry.

The network Seminar will not only strengthen cooperation with Bioversity, CIRAD, International Coconut Community and Coconut Research Institute of Sri Lanka, but also lay the foundation for collaborative research work on the coconut pan-genomic science.

                                                 Coconut Research Institute, CATAS Venue