CIMMYT and the Organization of Turkic States Forge Strategic Alliance to Strengthen Agricultural Innovation in the Turkic Countries

07 November 2025, Mexico:  CIMMYT and the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance agricultural innovation, food security, and sustainable development across the Turkic countries. 

The agreement was formalized on November 5, 2025, during the official visit of H.E. Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliyev, Secretary General of the OTS, to CIMMYT Headquarters in El Batán, Texcoco, Mexico. 

The MoU, signed by Bram Govaerts, Director General of CIMMYT, and Amb. Kubanychbek Omuraliyev, marks a new phase of collaboration between the two organizations to develop joint research and programs that promote sustainable and resilient agricultural systems across the member states of the OTS. 

The new partnership will serve as a catalyst for innovation and regional cooperation, aligning CIMMYT’s 2030 Strategy with the Turkic World Vision 2040. Through this collaboration, both organizations aim to accelerate the development of climate-resilient crops, strengthen seed systems, and enhance food security across the Turkic countries. 

“At CIMMYT, we are very proud of this agreement. It sets the foundation for great impact in a region responsible for feeding millions,” said Bram Govaerts, Director General of CIMMYT. “We don’t start from zero: 89 CIMMYT wheat varieties have been released in the region, 139 scientists trained, and 172 students obtained their master’s or PhD degrees. These numbers are great achievements, but this is just the start.’’  

“This partnership will allow our member states to benefit from CIMMYT’s global expertise, while we contribute our own regional knowledge and innovation potential,” said H.E. Ambassador Kubanychbek Omuraliyev, Secretary General of the OTS. “Agriculture is one of the most important pillars of our economies, providing employment, food, and social stability.” 

During his visit, Ambassador Omuraliyev toured CIMMYT’s world-class research facilities, including the Wellhausen & Anderson Genetic Resources Center, the Maize Quality and Nutrition Laboratory, and the Bioscience Complex, where CIMMYT scientists showcased their work on crop resilience, biodiversity conservation, and innovations in maize and wheat improvement. 

This collaboration highlights the shared vision of CIMMYT and the Organization of Turkic States to strengthen agricultural innovation and cooperation at a regional and global level. By joining forces, both institutions aim to drive transformative progress in food systems, promote regional resilience, and ensure sustainable growth across the Turkic world. 

Also Read: Change Of Mind On New Tractor Order Delivers Surprise Second Set Of New Wheels For Dairy Farmer

📢 If You’re in Agriculture, Make Sure the Right People Hear Your Story.
From product launches to strategic announcements, Global Agriculture offers unmatched visibility across international agri-business markets. Connect with us at pr@global-agriculture.com to explore editorial and advertising opportunities that reach the right audience, worldwide.