SINGAPORE (Bernama): The Asean Plus Three has called for a more focused implementation of the Asean Plus Three Cooperation Strategy (APTCS) on Food, Agriculture and Forestry 2026-2035.
In a joint statement after the 26th Asean Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry Plus Three (AMAF Plus Three) meeting hosted by Singapore, it said the framework must be backed by a clear action plan, with defined targets, timelines, funding and responsible agencies.
The meeting also reviewed the initial implementation of the APTCS, which was adopted last year, and reaffirmed its alignment with the Asean Vision for Food, Agriculture and Forestry towards 2045 and the Asean Food, Agriculture and Forestry Sectoral Plan 2026-2030.
"It identified four policy directions for the period 2026-2030, namely building resilient, safe and connected regional value chains; strengthening emergency preparedness and food-security information; accelerating sustainable and low-emission production; and scaling digital and scientific innovation for smallholders,” the statement said on Friday.
The meeting encouraged prioritising multi-country programmes involving Asean and its Plus Three partners, namely China, Japan, and South Korea, to maximise the benefits of regional cooperation.
It also called for Asean-led initiatives aligned with the APTCS to be expanded through regional collaboration where appropriate.
"Senior Officials Meeting of-AMAF Plus Three and relevant sectoral bodies were tasked to strengthen coordination, address implementation gaps and report regularly on results," it added.
According to the joint statement, Asean Plus Three also reaffirmed its cooperation in safeguarding regional food security and supporting sustainable development.
The meeting recognised that climate change, natural disasters, supply-chain disruptions, market volatility, transboundary pests and diseases, and pressure on land, water and marine resources require deeper regional solidarity.
It also needs improved information-sharing and coordinated action across the entire food, agriculture and forestry system.
The meeting called on governments, development partners, the private sector, research institutions and community organisations to work together in supporting and implementing the strategy.
"Effective Asean Plus Three cooperation must be inclusive, practical and accountable to the people it is intended to serve," it added. -- BERNAMA
