Reservations on Synthesis Report

Canada: In recognizing the important and significant work undertaken by IAASTD authors, Secretariat and stakehold­ers on the background Reports, the Canadian Government notes these documents as a valuable and important contri­bution to policy debate which needs to continue in national and international processes. While acknowledging the valu­able contribution these Reports provide to our understand­ing on agricultural knowledge, science and technology for development, there remain numerous areas of concern in terms of balanced presentation, policy suggestions and other assertions and ambiguities. Nonetheless, the Canadian Gov-

ernment advocates these reports be drawn to the attention of governments for consideration in addressing the impor­tance of AKST and its large potential to contribute to eco­nomic growth and the reduction of hunger and poverty.

United States of America: The United States joins con­sensus with other governments in the critical importance of AKST to meet the goals of the IAASTD. We commend the tireless efforts of the authors, editors, Co-Chairs and the Secretariat. We welcome the IAASTD for bringing together the widest array of stakeholders for the first time in an ini­tiative of this magnitude. We respect the wide diversity of views and healthy debate that took place.
     As we have specific and substantive concerns in each of the reports, the United States is unable to provide unquali­fied endorsement of the reports, and we have noted them.
     The United States believes the Assessment has potential for stimulating further deliberation and research. Further, we acknowledge the reports are a useful contribution for consideration by governments of the role of AKST in rais­ing sustainable economic growth and alleviating hunger and poverty.