This concept paper, prepared for presentation and discussion at the GFAR Conference in Dresden,
Germany, May 21-23, 2000, aims to highlight key issues that affect the conservation and use of plant
genetic resources for food and agriculture (PGRFA), review the activities that have taken place to
date in the GFAR Initiative on Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, outline planned activities
and suggest partnership proposals. It is hoped that this paper can assist in developing common
perceptions on these issues and in facilitating the emergence of consensus and concerted action.
Genetic resources for food and agriculture includes animals, fish, forest species and micro-organisms,
as well as plants. If there is sufficient interest, stakeholders are encouraged to convene after this
session, and develop key issues and partnership mechanisms for these other areas.