• Biotechnology offers the potential for more environmentally-friendly agriculture but the conditions for developing countries to take advantage of that potential should be created.
• Policy intervention is needed to ensure that biotechnology responds to the priorities set for agriculture.
• Decisions are urgently needed in two policy areas specific to biotechnology: biosafety and intellectual property rights.
• Public funding restrictions demand innovative approaches and public/private partnerships.
• Flexibility and long-term commitment are essential if donor-supported biotechnology initiatives are to succeed.
