From March 18 to April 10, researchers from the Southeast Asia Biodiversity Research Institute of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS-SEABRI) carried out a productive mission in Myanmar, fostering joint efforts in biodiversity documentation, capacity building, and conservation on the ground.

The team was led by Prof. Quan Ruichang, executive director of SEABRI and deputy director of Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden (XTBG). During the visit, Prof. Quan had a work meeting with U Nyunt Win, newly appointed director of the Forest Research Institute (FRI) of Myanmar.

Both sides reviewed the progress and major achievements of SEABRI’s work in Myanmar since its establishment over a decade ago. Director U Nyunt Win expressed sincere gratitude to SEABRI for its long-term support to Myanmar’s biodiversity conservation efforts, and the two parties discussed future directions for cooperation.

The two sides exchanged views on the digital sharing of herbarium specimen data, as well as collection strategies and standards. Concrete collaborative actions were discussed, including the planned transfer of plant specimens and the organization of technical training workshops in due course.

SEABRI researchers also conducted site surveys and reconnaissance for future field studies in areas around Nay Pyi Taw, accompanied by partners from the Forest Research Institute.