Prime Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele, on Friday received a courtesy visit from a delegation from the Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences (JAAS) in China.
Established in 1931, JAAS is one of China’s leading provincial research institutions dedicated to agricultural science and innovation.
The Academy plays a pivotal role in supporting China’s agricultural modernization through scientific research, technology transfer, and international cooperation.
Over the years, JAAS has developed strong partnerships with universities, research institutions, and governments including collaborations with Pacific Island countries such as the Solomon Islands, to promote sustainable agricultural development and strengthen food security.
The visit provided an opportunity for the Academy to share updates on its ongoing cooperation with Pacific Island countries, including the Solomon Islands Government, particularly in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL).
In partnership with MAL, JAAS has implemented several agricultural pilot projects across the Solomon Islands aimed at improving productivity, promoting innovation, and building local capacity.
JAAS Acting President and head of delegation, Professor Wang Kehua briefed Prime Minister Manele on discussions with the Ministry of Agriculture to explore future directions, work plans, and areas for deeper collaboration.
He also highlighted that the program continues to support local agricultural experts through specialized training and technical exchanges.
Professor Wang reaffirmed JAAS’s commitment to align the partnership with the priorities of the Solomon Islands Government and to continue supporting the country’s agricultural development.
The Academy’s Acting President also extended an invitation to Prime Minister Manele to visit the Jiangsu Academy of Agricultural Sciences in Jiangsu Province, China, at a future date.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Manele warmly welcomed the delegation and expressed appreciation for JAAS’s ongoing partnership with the Solomon Islands Government.
Prime Minister Manele acknowledged the positive impact of the collaboration to date and emphasized the importance of strengthening key areas to achieve greater outcomes in the sector.
The Prime Minister encouraged JAAS to continue working closely with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock on developing a comprehensive master plan to enhance agricultural growth.
He underscored that as agriculture remains the backbone of the Solomon Islands economy, areas such as technology transfer, specialized training, research, private sector participation, and value-adding should be key focuses of future cooperation.
Prime Minister Manele assured the delegation of his government’s full support and commitment to further advance the partnership between JAAS and the Solomon Islands Government.
– OPMC
