1a.Objectives (from AD-416)
Explore long-term cooperation between The National Council on Science and Technology (CONACYT) of the United Mexican States and the Agricultural Research Service (ARS), of the Department of Agriculture of the United States of America, to provide access to cutting-edge science, monitor scientific trends, and assess key areas of mutual interest for the benefit of Mexican and U.S. agriculture and science.

1b.Approach (from AD-416)
Both CONACYT and ARS will assign technical and scientific staff to discuss the development of a general framework for establishing a Virtual Binational Laboratory through the placement of Mexican scientists in ARS laboratories and locations as research. These scientists will work in the following cooperation activities: food safety; animal health; phyto-sanitary issues; water and environmental impact; biotechnology and biosafety.

3.Progress Report
This report serves to document activities and research carried out under the MOU between ARS and CONACYT. FY07 has no major activities to report. ARS-OIRP has management responsibility for this MOU and now has a permanent staff member assigned to cover ARS-Mexico relations after a prolonged vacancy period. This will allow for re-engagement with the cooperating institution in FY2008.