Expert from Israel shares best agri practices with PH

Israel is sharing with the Philippines its agricultural expertise, including its modern technologies, techniques and best practices for its agricultural sector.

The Embassy of Israel had recently invited agricultural research expert, professor Uri Yermiyahu, deputy director of the Volcani Institute of Israel, to share his insights on how his country became a world leader in agriculture and modernized its agricultural research and development (R&D) agenda.

“Sharing Prof. Uri’s expertise with the Philippines exemplifies creating bridges of innovation and technology between our two nations,” Israeli Ambassador Ilan Fluss said in a statement.

He added that the initiative was a response to President Marcos’ call for Israel to help the Philippines’ agriculture sector. Mr. Marcos is concurrently Agriculture Secretary.

Research interests

Yermiyahu’s research interests focus on plant nutrition and fertilization of crops, the embassy said, adding that his contributions include understanding influences of plant nutrition on biotic and abiotic stress causing factors, mineral requirements of agriculture in desert environments, salinity and toxicity in plants, and managing nutrients as a function of irrigation water quality.

During his visit, Yermiyahu discussed with the Department of Agriculture’s Bureau of Soils and Water Management the context of the agricultural research and development agenda of Israel.

He also met other Philippine agencies as well as segments of the private sector involved in agriculture.

Yermiyahu also joined discussions about comparing the agricultural R&D agenda of Israel and the Philippines, particularly on balanced fertilization strategy, the embassy said.

In partnership with the Israel Chamber of Commerce of the Philippines, Yermiyahu shared insights on the intricate science of plant nutrition.

Talks in Egypt

In a related development, Philippine officials recently met with Egyptian officials, exporters and importers of agricultural products in Cairo to discuss initiatives and projects that will boost agricultural trade between the Philippines and Egypt.

According to the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), Agriculture Attaché for Middle East and Africa Nolet Fulgencio discussed the work plan for the importation of Egyptian citrus products into the Philippines.

She also introduced Philippine agricultural and aquatic products that have high export potential, such as coconut, pineapple, banana, seaweed and tuna, the DFA said. INQ