In a recent virtual conference sponsored by the US Department of State, I was honored to represent our lab and Texas A&M University at the Turkmenistan Biotechnology Conference. This conference aimed to foster scientific collaboration between the U.S. and Turkmenistan, and my participation was an incredible opportunity to share my perspectives and expertise and explore avenues for international cooperation.
Spotlight on Modern Livestock Production
My contribution to the conference included delivering two lectures focused on “Modern Livestock Production: Technologies, Challenges, and Opportunities for Turkmenistan.” These presentations offered a comprehensive overview of the latest technological innovations in the field, including genomic selection, assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), and the revolutionary gene-editing CRISPR-Cas methods.
The heart of these lectures was to showcase the scientific advancements shaping livestock production globally and tailor these insights to the unique context of Turkmenistan. I discussed the challenges specific to animal species of cultural significance in the region and highlighted opportunities for expanding conventional farming practices through these modern technologies.
Unique Challenges and Cultural Considerations
A portion of the lecture was dedicated to challenges unique to Turkmenistan’s livestock industry. This included addressing species of interest and cultural significance, such as the renowned Akhal-Teke horses, and how technological innovations could be applied while respecting traditional practices and enhancing genetic diversity and health.
Opportunities for Expansion and Collaboration
The presentations also explored the potential for Turkmenistan to expand its conventional farming practices by applying these advanced technologies. The aim was to provide a roadmap for integrating modern scientific methods with existing agricultural practices, thereby opening new avenues for development and collaboration.
Acknowledgments and Thanks
The success of this conference and my lectures were made possible by the support and facilitation of the U.S. Embassy in Ashgabat, Merrion & Smith, and the exceptional translation services provided by Ms. Gozel Pashikova. Their efforts were instrumental in bridging the language barrier and effectively communicating complex scientific concepts. I also want to thank the scientific community in Turkmenistan, who tuned into this virtual conference and posed insightful questions.
Reflecting on the Experience
Participating in the Turkmenistan Biotechnology Conference was an honor and a profound reminder of the power of scientific collaboration to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries. It was a privilege to share our work with an international audience and to contribute to the dialogue on the future of livestock production in Turkmenistan.