On February 20, 2025, the Asian Forest Cooperation Organization (AFoCO) held a meeting with the Korea Arboreta and Gardens Institute (KOAGI) and the Baekdudaegan Global Seed Vault Center (BGSV) at Sejong National Arboretum to discuss strengthening collaboration. The meeting focused on three key areas: KOAGI’s Crop Wild Relatives (CWR) conservation and research project, AFoCO’s Science and Technology Exchange Partnership (STEP) program, and the Keep Eternally Your Seeds (KEYS) program.
KOAGI proposed integrating its CWR conservation research with AFoCO’s ODA programs. Designed for application across Central Asia and the broader Asian region, this initiative aims to establish an Asian CWR hub and expand research networks with European institutions. KOAGI has already secured funding from the Korean Research Foundation and is seeking additional support through the EU Horizon Program. To maximize its impact, KOAGI is also exploring a strategic partnership with AFoCO. In response, AFoCO will review KOAGI’s CWR research and assess ways to align it with the needs of its Member Countries.
The 2025 STEP and KEYS programs are also set to expand through cooperation with KOAGI and BGSV. STEP participants will receive training focused on arboretum and garden management. Additionally, they will attend the BGCI World Botanic Gardens Education Congress, where they will engage with leading experts in the field and deepen their expertise. The KEYS program continues to strengthen seed conservation capacity across Asia. KEYS participants will also attend the BGCI World Botanic Gardens Education Congress and take part in a workshop hosted by BGSV, where they will learn and exchange knowledge on the latest seed conservation and research methodologies. During the meeting, a proposal was introduced to establish a working group within KEYS to collaborate with BGSV on seed deposit procedures and management strategies. This initiative aims to develop a sustainable long-term framework for seed conservation, ensuring continued benefits for the region.
Through this meeting, AFoCO, KOAGI, and BGSV reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in forest conservation and seed management. Moving forward, the three organizations will refine their partnership frameworks and take concrete steps to implement joint initiatives that contribute to the sustainability of Asia’s forests.
Submitted by Kiwon Kim, Program Officer, Capacity-Building and Evaluation Team
