On May 11, Prof. Zhou Xueping, DG of IPP-CAAS, hosted the kick-off meeting for the FAO project “Innovative technologies for integrated and sustainable management of the most devastating insect pests and diseases affecting smallholder farmers’ production integrating impact of climate change”. Dr. Gu Baogen, Team Leader, and Dr. Hadi Huyung, Agricultural Officer from the Pest and Pesticide Management Team, FAO, joined the meeting ‘virtually’ through video conferencing (Zoom).

The FAO project “Innovative technologies for integrated and sustainable management of the most devastating insect pests and diseases affecting smallholder farmers’ production integrating impact of climate change” hosted by IPP-CAAS, is a major International Cooperation Project in 2020. The project aims to identify 10 most important insect pests and diseases affecting smallholder farmers’ production and formulate integrated pest management strategies. Prof. Zhou reported the progress of the project at the meeting. According to the plan, we have accomplished the first phase and identified top 10 insect pests and top 10 diseases, respectively. The list was submitted to this meeting for discussion. Prof. Zhou added, “The recent outbreak of COVID-19 has posed some influence to the progress of the project. The online technical meeting might be delayed. However, we will do our best to make sure the project is carried out as planned.” Dr. Gu affirmed the progress of the project so far. He gave suggestions on potential diseases and insects which could be considered. Dr. Gu also suggested that an expert panel should be organized soon to help narrow down the list. Dr. Buyung said he will follow up the progress of the project and provide necessary support when needed.

The meeting has laid strong foundation for the smooth implementation of this FAO project. Relevant persons at IPP-CAAS involved in the project attended the meeting.