Ambassador Nguyen Van Thao (R) and EU Commissioner for Agriculture Janusz Wojciechowski at the meeting on June 1 (Photo: VNA) At the meeting on June 1, Ambassador Thao said agricultural cooperation isone of the pillars in bilateral ties, especially when the world is facing a growingchallenge to food security.
Vietnam and the EU hold greatpotential for cooperation in this area as the latter is working to diversifysupply sources and guarantee food security while the former boasts agriculturalstrength and considerable advantages generated by the bilateral free tradeagreement (EVFTA), he noted.
The ambassador called on theEU to increase sharing information and experience; help Vietnam build policiesand models for green, modern, and efficient agriculture along with enhancing its capacity in agriculture production through assistance in developing infrastructure, human resources, technology transfer; and invest more in hi-tech and smart farming, as well asagricultural processing for export in Vietnam.
He also suggested the EU assistVietnam in adapting to climate change, mitigating its impacts on agriculture, andrealising commitments on emissions reduction and environmental protection,especially those made at the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (COP26)last year.
Wojciechowski said Vietnam is thefirst developing country to ink a new-generation FTA with the EU, which showsthe bloc’s high valuation of Vietnam’s potential.
The EU views Vietnam as animportant partner in agriculture with great potential for expanding bilateral collaboration, he said, adding he will lead an agricultural businessdelegation to visit the country to promote agricultural links, not only in tradingfarm produce but also many other aspects.
Voicing his support for Thao’scooperation proposals, the commissioner recommended both sides keep close coordinationto further step up trade in agricultural products.
The EU is also ready to helpVietnam respond to climate change impacts on agriculture, curb emissions, andprotect the environment, which are issues needing global cooperation, accordingto Wojciechowski./.
VNA
