The Organizing Committee of the 3rd Global Peasant Forum held its first working meeting online recently, signifying the start of a new stage in the forum’s preparations. Zhang Qi, the Secretary-General of WPA, chaired the meeting. The organizing committee members who participated in the meeting were Executive Director Nicos Ioannou (Cyprus), Director of International Cooperation Dept. Zhang Guoqing, Deputy Director of the Arts Council Chen Jianjun, and Deputy Director of the General Office of  International Cooperation Dept.  Paschalis Nikolaou (Cyprus).

During the meeting, the organizing committee discussed key issues such as the forum’s venue, participants, conference agenda, and funding sources.

After thorough discussion and evaluation, the Organizing Committee has tentatively decided to choose Cyprus as the location for the 3rd Global Peasant Forum. Cyprus is a country with a long agricultural tradition and rich agricultural resources. Holding the forum in Cyprus will facilitate exchanges and cooperation among peasants worldwide, as well as promote agricultural development and progress.

During the discussion of participants, the Organizing Committee unanimously decided to invite representatives from various sectors, including peasants, government officials, experts and scholars, representatives of non-governmental organizations, business representatives, and individuals concerned with agriculture and peasants from all over the world to participate in the forum. This will enhance  international agricultural exchanges and cooperation, ensuring the forum’s diversity and inclusivity.

The organizing committee has developed a comprehensive agenda for the conference, which includes and opening ceremony, keynote speeches, sub-forums, interactive sessions, and a closing ceremony. This diverse range of agenda items ensures that the forum can cover a wide range of topics and meet the needs and expectations of all participants. The interactive session will provide participants with flexible and in-depth opportunities for exchange and cooperation.

After discussion and consultation, it was decided that the costs would be shared by WPA and related agencies. WPA, as a representative and organizer of peasants worldwide, will play a central role in connecting resources and seeking support. The involvement of pertinent institutions will also furnish the forum with a broader source of funding and support network.

In conclusion, the successful holding of this working meeting marked a new stage in the preparations for the 3rd Global Peasant Forum. In the next phase, the Organizing committee will refine the work, clarify the focus and schedule, and ensure the success of the 3rd Global Peasant Forum. All participants agreed to do their best to contribute to the success of the event.