Cabinet approves agreement signing with Egypt on agriculture

New Delhi, Sep 12 (IANS) The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Egypt for cooperation in the field of agriculture and allied sectors.

The MoU provides for cooperation in areas of agricultural crops (especially wheat and maize), agricultural biotechnology, nano-technology, irrigation and water management technology including water harvesting and micro-irrigation technology, management of agriculture wastes management for energy production.

It will also focus on issues such as food security, safety and quality; horticulture; organic agriculture; livestock husbandry, livestock breeding, dairying, fisheries, feed and fodder production; animal products and value addition; sanitary and phyto-sanitary issues concerning trade in plant and animal products.

"Cooperation will also be effected through exchange of research scientists and experts," says a government statement. 

It said a Joint Working Group (JWG) will be formed under the MoU to enhance cooperation on matters of mutual interest including consultations on bilateral issues. 

"The JWG will meet at least annually in the initial two years, alternately in India and Egypt to formulate joint work programs, facilitation and consultation, including making additional supplementary engagements with regard to specific issues," the statement added.