A model of agro-forestry production in Mai Son district, Son La province (Source: http://nature.org.vn)
Under the theme “Mountains of opportunity”, the symposium held in Hanoi explores key learnings, insights and implications from research programs in North-West under the four topics of regional markets and trade, sustainable farming systems, safe food value-chains, and inclusive and prosperous communities.
It will also create an opportunity to enhance the capacity of young Vietnamese researchers.
“Cooperation in agriculture has been a very important part of Australia’s relationship with Vietnam throughout the 44 years of diplomatic links between our two countries. I have had the pleasure of visiting several ACIAR projects in North-West region and I have been impressed by what I have seen”, said Australian Ambassador to Vietnam, Mr Craig Chittick.
Researchers from ACIAR projects will join key representatives from the Government, donors, research organisations and agribusiness in discussions on opportunities for inclusive agriculture-led economic growth in the North West and other mountainous regions.
ACIAR started its first project in the North-West region 15 years ago and has provided funding of more than AUD22.5 million so far, mainly on horticultural agribusiness, agro-forestry, and livestock production research.
Deputy Minister Le Quoc Doanh spoke at the event
According to Le Quoc Doanh, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, the North-West is rich in social-cultural diversity and unique natural attributes. However, the region’s agricultural production has not fully reached its potentials, and is still unsustainable.
“I am glad to see that ACIAR in Vietnam is prioritizing research to help connect farmers to more profitable markets and increase their incomes while protecting the natural land and water resources of the region”, stressed Mr Doanh./.