Vietnam, Australia bolstering agricultural cooperation

PANO - The Australian and Vietnamese Governments are strengthening our agricultural relations, holding the first ever bilateral agriculture talks from 22-23 November in Hanoi.

The Vietnam-Australia Agricultural Forum is being held by the Australian Department of Agriculture and Water Resources (DAWR) and Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD).  It was established in recognition of the strong and growing agriculture relationship between Australia and Vietnam.

Australian delegation at the forum. Photo: nongnghiep.vn

“Agriculture is a cornerstone of our bilateral partnership. Australia is committed to deepening our relationship in trade, agribusiness, research, innovation and investment”, said Australian Ambassador to Vietnam, Mr. Craig Chittick.

“Agriculture is a priority sector for Vietnam’s development, and Australia will continue to invest in our joint agriculture research collaboration and foster commercial technology transfer to help Vietnamese farming communities reach their aspirations. Vietnam is an important agricultural trading partner for Australia, and we look forward to expanding trade and investment opportunities. We are also both working to address the impact of a changing climate and improve water management”, Ambassador Chittick added.

The first meeting of the Vietnam-Australia Agricultural Forum will include discussions on trade, agribusiness, forestry and fisheries, as well as education, science and technology issues.

“The Forum provides an opportunity to share experiences and identify areas for future collaboration. Australia is pleased that the Forum has been established and we hope that it allows shared understanding of agricultural policies, progress on market access issues and helps build mutual capacity”, said DAWR Deputy Secretary, David Parker.

The meeting coincides with the Australian Embassy’s Gender Month. The Forum included a discussion on gender policies in the agricultural sector. Australia will also provide an overview program to improve profitability for women farmers and agribusinesses.

The inaugural meeting was chaired for Australia by DAWR Deputy Secretary, David Parker, and co-chaired for Vietnam by MARD Vice Minister, Le Quoc Doanh.