The eighth Hongqiao International Economic Forum dedicated its first-ever sub-forum to sustainable agricultural development in the Global South, convening global experts to address pressing challenges in food security, technology, and rural transformation. Over 300 participants from governments, academia, and international organizations explored collaborative pathways to strengthen food systems in developing economies.
Innovation Meets Collaboration
Nobel laureate Michael Levitt emphasized the transformative potential of AI and biodiversity in agriculture, citing China’s advancements in precision farming and biofertilizers as models for resource-constrained regions. “Scientific innovation must align with local needs,” he noted, highlighting the importance of adaptable solutions.
China’s Role in Capacity Building
Academician Bai Lianyang detailed China’s knowledge-sharing initiatives under the Belt and Road and Global Development frameworks, including hybrid rice programs and farmer training. “True sustainability comes when our partners own the technology,” he stated, underscoring long-term empowerment strategies.
Africa’s Growing Voice
Rwanda Development Board’s Michele Umulisa stressed Africa’s critical role in global agricultural dialogues: “Our participation ensures development strategies reflect on-ground realities.” World Food Programme representative Zhao Bing echoed the need for cross-sector cooperation, stating food security demands “collective action beyond borders.”
The event, co-hosted by China’s Ministry of Commerce and Peking University, reinforced agriculture’s centrality to achieving UN Sustainable Development Goals while fostering South-South cooperation.
