Experts: China and Ireland expected to strengthen agricultural cooperation

China and Ireland expect to see stronger ties in agricultural research, education and transnational cooperation, according to experts from both countries.

A stepped-up partnership can promote global agricultural advancements as the two nations commemorate their 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year, said Ann Derwin, Irish ambassador to China.

She made the remarks at the World Agrifood Innovation Conference 2024 Summit Dialogue, which was held at China Agricultural University in Beijing late July.

Derwin, highlighting bilateral technical exchanges, joint research and development efforts, and the promotion of modern agricultural technologies, said this expansion of cooperation areas signifies robust growth and potential.

Sun Qixin, president of China Agricultural University, said at the conference that the university has always been committed to deepening international cooperation and exchanges, and has established close partnerships with top global institutions such as National University of Ireland and University College Dublin to promote global agricultural prosperity and development.

At the same time, the university is making efforts to develop the World Agrifood Innovation Conference into an international, regular and high-standard platform for the exchange and cooperation of agricultural science and technology innovation, to contribute to the advancement of global agricultural technology, he said.

Drawing on Ireland's historical struggles with famine, Derwin said that food and nutrition security is important for national and global stability and development.

She said Ireland has bolstered collaboration with the World Food Program, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, and African nations, particularly focusing on supporting underdeveloped countries through targeted food programs.

She also expressed her hope for Ireland to play a more substantial role in international agricultural exchanges.