A report from the European Commission, in April 2021, recommended modifying the drastic rules governing GMOs, deeming them "unsuitable" for genome editing techniques, which make it possible to develop seed varieties resistant to certain herbicides or to drought. .

Such varieties are grown on an experimental basis, but cannot be marketed.

During a meeting in Prague, placed under the sign of a tribute to the Czech figure Gregor Mendel, father of modern genetics, the ministers called for these biotechnologies to be made a tool for tackling climate change.

"Genome editing techniques are a wonderful tool to ensure that crops need less water, less phytosanitary products and fertilizers, that they are more resistant", launched the Spanish minister, Luis Planas Puchades.

"As soon as these + new genomic techniques + make it possible to ensure the agro-ecological transition and to deal with climate change, this is a path that must be explored", added his French counterpart, Marc Fesneau.

However, some States say they are vigilant that this new framework does not mark a relaxation for GMOs (genetically modified organisms).

"Slovakia is opposed to GMOs, European agriculture does not need them. On the other hand, we are open to new selection methods (genomics) because we are well aware that varieties must be improved in the face of the climate. We want to discuss the possible options,” said Slovak Minister Samuel Vlcan.

"We don't want GMOs, but here we are talking about gene editing: we need a careful approach that is as similar as possible to traditional breeding methods (...) We need to develop varieties that are more resistant to drought , frost, pests", insisted Czech Minister Zdenek Nekula, while demanding "an exhaustive analysis" before any decision.

Agriculture Commissioner Janusz Wojciechowski has promised to submit a legislative proposal to the States "in the second quarter of 2023".

"In the long term, we need to make our crops more resilient. Ministers have fully endorsed this approach, there is no controversy about the direction taken towards genomic techniques," he said.

"Our proposal will be based on a solid impact study. We must be extremely careful to avoid any danger to public health, the environment and the economic interests of farmers. For example, organic farming must be preserved from any impact negative", nevertheless insisted Mr. Wojciechowski.

© 2022 AFP