Timor-Leste and China have strengthened their strategic co-operation in the agricultural sector, aiming to modernise rural development and enhance food security.

The commitment was reaffirmed during a bilateral meeting in Beijing between the Minister of Rural Development and Community Housing, Mariano Assanami Sabino, and China's Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Zhang Zhu.

The meeting focused on strengthening collaboration in key areas such as agriculture, livestock, veterinary affairs, food security, technological innovation and trade co-operation, with the aim of promoting a more modern, productive and sustainable model of rural development.

During the meeting, opportunities for technical co-operation, knowledge transfer and institutional capacity building were discussed, taking into account the challenges associated with digitalisation and globalisation.

Mariano Assanami Sabino emphasised that agriculture remains an essential pillar for economic development and the well-being of rural communities in Timor-Leste, highlighting the importance of the partnership with China to increase productivity and improve the living conditions of the rural population. In turn, Zhang Zhu reiterated China's readiness to continue supporting the country, based on a relationship of friendship and mutual benefit.

(Source: Agroportal, on 1 June)