In line with the directives of Minister of Agriculture Alaa Farouk to enhance cooperation with Uzbekistan by sharing Egypt’s successful agricultural experiences, Dr. Hossam Shawky, Head of the Desert Research Center (DRC), received Uzbekistan’s Ambassador to Cairo, Mansurbek Kilichev, and his accompanying delegation
The visit follows an invitation extended by the Minister during a recent meeting, aiming to strengthen scientific collaboration and advance sustainable agricultural development in both countries
The meeting was attended by DRC officials, including Dr. Mohamed Ezzat, Deputy Head for Projects and Research Stations; Dr. Ghada Hegazy, Deputy Head for Research and Studies; and Dr. Ahmed Abdel Aaty, Executive Coordinator and Egypt’s representative on the Science and Technology Committee
Dr. Shawky highlighted the DRC’s pioneering role in agricultural research, its four specialized divisions, and 11 research stations across Egypt’s deserts, including five in Sinai. He emphasized the Center’s efforts in land classification, sustainable water and land use, and its Centers of Excellence in desalination and saline agriculture
Ambassador Kilichev expressed Uzbekistan’s keen interest in joint research on dryland farming, soil rehabilitation, and combating desertification—especially as DRC is Egypt’s national focal point for the UNCCD. He also stressed the importance of expert exchange and pilot projects in Uzbekistan using Egypt’s experience
The delegation toured the DRC’s herbarium, central laboratories, and desalination research center, where they viewed advanced equipment for groundwater analysis, isotope testing, X-ray technologies, and membrane evaluation
The visit concluded with an agreement to organize a follow-up trip to the South Sinai Research Station (Ras Sudr) to explore applied techniques in dryland agriculture and soil rehabilitation
