A Chinese delegation led by Zhang Qi, WFA’s Secretary General, met with Lamkham Toussavant, the new Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, early on May 8, in Vientiane, Laos. During the conference, the two sides discussed themes such as promoting sustainable agricultural growth and strengthening agricultural cooperation.

The visit coincided with a critical period of ministerial transition in Laos' Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, and the new minister, Lamkham Toussavant, received a visit from WFA on his first day in office, demonstrating Laos' importance and openness to agricultural cooperation. WFA's Secretary General Zhang Qi, began the meeting by introducing the Chinese delegation and the purpose of this visit, as well as expressing WFA's concern and expectation for the long-term development of agriculture in Laos.  Lamkham Toussavant welcomed the Chinese delegation and provided a thorough overview of Laos' current position and future agricultural development goals. He emphasized that the Lao government places a high value on agricultural development, particularly in terms of increasing agricultural production, conserving the environment, and fostering rural development, and has achieved outstanding accomplishments. He also mentioned the agricultural collaboration between China and Laos, expressing his hope that the two sides could enhance their cooperation and jointly advance the growth of agriculture in both countries.

During the talks, both sides had detailed discussions about WFA's proposed Memorandum of Understanding on Agricultural Cooperation. Lamkham Toussavant stated that the Lao government strongly supports collaboration with WFA and will positively encourage the implementation of necessary activities. He also urged that both parties refine the content of their cooperation under the supervision of professionals to ensure that the signing of the project cooperation memorandum goes smoothly.

Besides, Zhang Qi briefed Lamkham Toussavant on WFA's Global Summit on Sustainable Agriculture, which will be held in Singapore in July and the Third Global Peasant Forum to be held in Cyprus in November, and cordially invited Laos to participate as a guest country. Lamkham Toussavant expressed great interest in this and stated that he would actively consider participation in them to broaden the scope of cooperation between the two sides and deepen the meaning of cooperation.  

Following the meeting, both parties exchanged gifts. The Chinese representative of WFA gave Laos its Shinongtai liquor, to which Laos responded with coffee and green tea, symbolizing the growing friendship and the bright future of collaboration.

The meeting between WFA's Chinese delegation and the Minister of Agriculture and Forestry of Laos not only increased their awareness of each other's agricultural sectors, but also created the groundwork for future collaboration. Both parties stated that they will improve communication and cooperation to promote agricultural sustainability and contribute to both nations' wealth and advancement.

The talks were attended by Lin Weimin, Chinese Director of WFA's Project Management Division, Li Ji, Deputy Director of the International Cooperation Division, Zheng Hong, Director of WFA's Laos Office, and relevant leaders from the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Laos.