In July and September, Prof. Li Xiande, the Vice Chairman of the Chinese Society of Foreign Agricultural Economy (CSFAE), led a delegation from the Institute of Agricultural Economics and Development (IAED) of CAAS to Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. The visits aimed to advance the NSFC-CGIAR project "Approach, Path and Strategy of Agricultural Cooperation between China and Central Asia under the Background of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)" and to deepen scientific collaboration by fostering cooperation platforms, strengthening joint research, and exploring mechanisms for knowledge sharing. These engagements have laid a solid foundation for future partnerships across Central Asia.

Throughout the visits, the delegation engaged in in-depth discussions with government ministries, universities, research institutes, Chinese companies and overseas industrial parks, and local farmers and food markets. Meeting with the Kyrgyz Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources, and Processing Industry focused on sustainable resource management amid climate challenges, policies for responsible agricultural investment, and initiatives to facilitate food trade. At universities and research institutions across Central Asian countries, the delegation explored opportunities for academic and scientific collaboration, including the possibility of joint research and talent exchange programs. Chinese companies, such as the Xi’an Aiju Agro-Processing Park in Kazakhstan, emphasized the importance of private-sector partnerships and agribusiness investments in the region. Visits to farming communities and food markets in the Fergana Valley provided valuable insights into the agricultural landscape and livelihoods within Central Asia’s "food basket."

The IAED-CAAS delegation was warmly received by officials, researchers, and community leaders across the region, underscoring a shared commitment to building resilient agricultural systems and fostering sustainable development under the BRI.

By Qian Chen (qianchen@caas.cn)