To further cooperate with Vietnamese institutions on forest biodiversity studies, XTBG organized a Workshop on the Joint Research on Forest Biodiversity in Tropical China and Vietnam on February 27. Participants were composed of 12 scientific fellows (Cao Min, Zhou Zhekun included) from XTBG and 5 researchers from Southern Institute of Ecology of VAST and CAT TIEN National Park.

At the opening of the workshop, Dr. Cao Min reviewed history of cooperation on forest biodiversity studies between XTBG and Vietnamese institutions and talked about prospects for further collaboration. Dr. Luu Hong Truong of Southern Institute of Ecology (SIE) briefed major functions and some ongoing missions of SIE.

On the basis of literature review,Prof. Zhu Hua provided CAT TIEN National Park with suggestions for future scientific research directions.

Young research fellows (Yin Jiantao, Tan Yunhong, Shi Jipu) from XTBG Herbarium, Seed Bank, and Department of Gardening & Horticulture introduced their current work and possibilities in joint studies with Vietnamese colleagues.

At the workshop, the following common understandings were reached:

To deepen and expand joint forest biodiversity studies in southern Vietnam; To consider establishing long-term ecosystem monitoring network while setting up forest dynamics plot; To enhance exchange of information and research materials; To conduct feasibility study on establishing botanical garden and herbarium in CAT TIEN National Park; To further promote cooperation in personnel training; etc.

Dr. Luu Hong Truong of Southern Institute of Ecology  making a report

Dr. Cao Min speaking

Gift exchange between the two sides

Group photo of participants