BY NED GAGAHE
Agricultural cooperation continues to be a cornerstone of relations between Solomon Islands and China, according to Vice Governor Zhao Yan of Jiangsu Province, China who says both countries are committed to deepen collaboration in research, food security and agricultural development.
Speaking during a formal ceremony in Honiara yesterday, Zhao said agricultural cooperation has remained one of the strongest areas of practical engagement since Solomon Islands and China established diplomatic relations more than six years ago.
“Since the establishment of diplomatic relations more than six years ago, under the strategic guidance of the leaders of our two countries, our bilateral relations have achieved overall development.
“In this process, agricultural cooperation has remained a cornerstone of our practical cooperation,” Zhao said.
The ceremony included the handover of agricultural items to the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock Development (MALD), the inauguration of the JAAS-MALD Rice Demonstration Base and the signing of a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding involving the Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences (JAAS), Solomon Islands National University (SINU) and MALD.
Governor Zhao said Jiangsu Province is one of China’s leading regions in agriculture, science and technology, with more than 70 agricultural universities and research institutions and over 10,000 agricultural science and technology professionals.
He said the province possesses extensive experience in agricultural innovation and is ready to share its expertise with Solomon Islands.
The Vice Governor highlighted the role of the China-Pacific Island Countries Agricultural Cooperation Demonstration Centre, launched in Jiangsu in 2023, which has become an important platform for agricultural cooperation between China and Pacific Island countries.
He said the centre is currently working with MALD to deliver training programmes that aim to strengthen agricultural knowledge and skills in Solomon Islands.
Looking ahead, Zhao outlined three priorities for future cooperation, beginning with stronger scientific research and innovation.
He said JAAS will focus on Solomon Islands’ agricultural priorities by introducing improved farming technologies and data-driven solutions to support the country’s transition towards modern agriculture.
The second priority is strengthening food security through demonstration projects, including continued support for the rice demonstration base.
“Relying on the rice demonstration base, we will continue to provide expert support and on-site technical guidance to improve local rice output and self-sufficiency,” Zhao said.
He said the initiative will help Solomon Islands build a more resilient food system and strengthen its capacity to ensure long-term food security.
The third area of cooperation focuses on developing local agricultural expertise through training and capacity building.
Zhao said talent development is essential for agricultural modernisation and sustainable growth.
He said training programmes will share Jiangsu’s experience and best practices in green agricultural development, helping to equip Solomon Islanders with technical, operational and management skills needed to advance the country’s agriculture sector.
The Vice Governor reaffirmed China’s commitment to support Solomon Islands’ agricultural development and strengthen the partnership between the two countries for mutual benefit.
Photo credit: Ned Gagahe
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