GLOBAL BIOTECHNOLOGY FORUM IN CHILE, 2 - 5 MARCH

GLOBAL BIOTECHNOLOGY FORUM IN CHILE, 2 - 5 MARCH

VIENNA, 24 February (UNIDO) -- Over 600 participants representing governments, the scientific community and economic life, as well as the general public, will gather in Concepción, Chile from 2 to 5 March for the first Global Biotechnology Forum.  Eminent scientists and experts, as well as other prominent participants, are expected to attend.

Organized by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) and the Government of Chile in collaboration with the University of Concepción, the forum will examine biotechnological opportunities and challenges in the developing world.  The meeting will focus on issues relating to biodiversity, biosafety and intellectual property rights.  The effects of trade and economic integration treaties in technology transfer and the kind of funding mechanisms needed to mobilize the required resources will also be on the agenda.

Simultaneous interpretation will be available in English and Spanish.  Media interviews with officials and participants can be organized upon request, depending on their availability.  Media representatives wishing to cover the forum are encouraged to apply for accreditation (form available at www.gbf2004.cl/registration.html -- no fees apply) and should bring their credentials and valid passports/identity cards.  More information, including the forum programme, is available at http://binas.unido.org/global_forum/

For further information, please contact:  Cristina Stricker, UNIDO Information Officer, tel.:  +43-1-260 26–3034, e-mail:  c.stricker@unido.org

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