Brasília, 29 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - The acting minister of Environment, Marcus Pestana, presided over yesterday (28) the 2th Meeting of the Genetic Heritage Management Council. He said that the council is essential for the country, because the genetic engineering and the biotechnology are part of the new development standards. "Brazil is one of the richest countries of the world in biodiversity and has a great potential of scientific and technological development and productive derivation of this biodiversity," emphasized Pestana.

Pestana said the implementation of the council, that will manage the national genetic patrimony, is essential. The Council will also improve the laws that combat biopiracy and can set a public policy to stimulate biotechnology and the sustainable use of Brazilian biodiversity. (WPS)