Xinjiang Agricultural University Inaugurates Two International Joint Laboratories
Urumqi, May 12, 2032 — Two international joint laboratories were officially launched at Xinjiang Agricultural University (XJAU) during the First China-Central Asia Education Ministers’ Conference held in Urumqi. The University partnered with Kazakhstan’s Saken. Seifullin Kazakh Agrotechnical Research University and China’s Hohai University to establish the Silk Road Economic Belt International Joint Laboratory for Agricultural Water Conservation and River-Lake Health, while collaborating solely with the Kazakh institution to unveil the Silk Road Economic Belt International Joint Laboratory for Crop Bio-Breeding. XJAU Party Secretary Prof. Xie Shuqing attended the inauguration ceremony.
1. Silk Road Economic Belt International Joint Laboratory for Agricultural Water Conservation and River-Lake Health
Addressing critical challenges in water resources and ecological security across arid and semi-arid regions along the Belt and Road, this laboratory aims to tackle the dual pressures of traditional agriculture’s high water consumption and ecological degradation of rivers and lakes. As a flagship platform for China-Central Asia cross-border research, it integrates cutting-edge technologies such as satellite remote sensing and artificial intelligence to drive breakthroughs in agricultural water-saving theories and river-lake health assessment methodologies. The lab will bolster national food security, water security, ecological sustainability, and support the development of Xinjiang’s top ten industrial clusters.
Through collaboration with the Xinjiang Key Laboratory of Efficient Water Use, the facility has established three shared platforms: alpine snow-ice monitoring, watershed hydro-ecological monitoring, and oasis irrigation habitat regulation. It will open data resources to Central Asian nations to promote regional scientific connectivity. Additionally, a “seed fund” and incentive mechanisms have been introduced to empower young scientists, advancing the global standing of hydraulic engineering disciplines. By fostering “technology sharing, talent cultivation, and joint innovation,” the laboratory fills a gap in cross-border water research in Central Asia and contributes Chinese expertise to building a global community of shared future.
2. Silk Road Economic Belt International Joint Laboratory for Crop Bio-Breeding
Focused on key agricultural challenges in the Silk Road core zone and Central-West Asia, this lab targets research on staple crops, fiber plants, and forage grasses. Its mission spans trait genomics, germplasm evaluation and innovation, molecular breeding, high-efficiency bio-breeding technologies, and agricultural talent development. By integrating high-throughput phenomics and gene-editing technologies, the lab aims to create a robust breeding platform, develop stress-resistant and high-yield crop varieties, and establish a “theory-technology-material” R&D system.
Serving as an international hub for scientific exchange, the facility will foster transnational, interdisciplinary collaboration to deliver improved crop varieties and tailored breeding solutions for Xinjiang and neighboring countries. This initiative aligns with the Belt and Road Initiative’s goals of promoting high-quality agricultural development and regional food security.
These laboratories mark a milestone in cross-border scientific cooperation, reinforcing Xinjiang’s role as a nexus for innovation and sustainable growth along the Silk Road.
