Decision COP XIII/16

Noting that digital sequence information  on genetic resources is a cross-cutting issue that may concern the three objectives of the Convention on Biological Diversity,

Noting rapid advances arising from research and development in biotechnology regarding the use of digital sequence information on genetic resources and therefore recognizing the importance of addressing this matter in the framework of the Convention in a timely manner,

Recognizing also the need for a coordinated and non-duplicative approach on this matter under the Convention and the Nagoya Protocol,

1.Decides to consider at its fourteenth meeting any potential implications of the use of digital sequence information on genetic resources for the three objectives of the Convention;

2.Invites Parties, other Governments, indigenous peoples and local communities, and relevant organizations and stakeholders to submit views and relevant information to the Executive Secretary on the potential implications referred to in paragraph 1;

4.Decides to establish an Ad Hoc Technical Expert Group and requests the Executive Secretary, subject to the availability of financial resources, to convene a meeting of this group in accordance with the terms of reference contained in the annex;

5.Requests the Subsidiary Body on Scientific, Technical and Technological Advice to consider the outcomes of the ad hoc technical expert group and to make a recommendation on the potential implications of the use of digital sequence information on genetic resources for the three objectives of the Convention for the consideration of the Conference of the Parties at its fourteenth meeting;