Message from the Chairman and Director

Dear Colleague:

We are pleased to present you with "CGIAR News," the summer edition.
This issue provides a snapshot of events (past and upcoming), reports on research successes at the Centers, and progress on Systemwide activities and partnerships.

Foremost among the upcoming events is the 2003 Annual General Meeting (AGM03), plans for which are moving well. The customary booklet containing information and registration material is enclosed with this mailing. If you are planning to attend AGM03, the CGIAR website (www.cgiar.org) will be the principal source of updated information.

This issue seeks to provide readers with a flavor of the discussions and progress being made in returning agriculture to the front and center of the international development agenda. We are pleased that interest in the CGIAR remains high, and is being matched by increased investments from key donors. The entire CGIAR family can feel proud that the Group of Eight’s Evian Communiqué gave special recognition to genetic resources, science and technology for sustainable development, and CGIAR’s role in these important themes.

Looking ahead, by the AGM03 we expect to announce the new Science
Council. The range and pace of activities between AGMs has increased since the initial phase of reform was launched, an indication that the first phase of reform is helping give the System an even stronger sense of purpose and direction.

We hope you have a restful summer and we look forward to being in
touch with you before AGM’03. Comments are welcome and may be sent
to cgiar@cgiar.org


Cordially,

Ian Johnson CGIAR Chairman

Francisco Reifschneider CGIAR Director