Côte d'Ivoire Official Calls China's Agricultural Model a Blueprint for Sustainable Growth

ABIDJAN, May 25 (Xinhua) -- The agricultural development model of China has emerged as a significant source of inspiration for African nations, particularly highlighted by recent remarks from a senior official from Cote d'Ivoire. During an event marking 'China Day' at the 7th International Agriculture and Animal Resources Exhibition (SARA), Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani, the minister of state and minister of agriculture and rural development, emphasized China's remarkable agricultural transformation over the past few decades.
Adjoumani noted that in less than fifty years, China has achieved one of the most notable transformations in global agriculture, establishing a robust agricultural and agro-industrial sector. This event, which runs until June 1, showcases China as the guest of honor and serves as a platform for discussing international agricultural advancements.
The Ivorian minister underscored the necessity for Cote d'Ivoire, a West African nation engaged in modernizing its agricultural practices, to leverage China's developmental experiences. He expressed gratitude for the ongoing technical assistance and expertise from China, reiterating hopes for strengthened collaborative efforts in the agricultural field.
Highlighting the untapped potential within Cote d'Ivoire, Adjoumani stated that many agricultural products could be better utilized through local valorization within a mutually beneficial partnership framework. He pointed out the progress seen in sectors such as cocoa, cashew, and natural rubber cultivation, indicating the scope for further development.
Looking ahead, the minister advocated for increased Chinese investment in Cote d'Ivoire's agricultural sector. He suggested a shift away from traditional cocoa planting towards collaborative development. This would involve local producers cultivating the crops while partners focus on domestic processing, ultimately targeting the vast market of over one billion consumers in China for exports.
Furthermore, Adjoumani called for investments in critical agricultural infrastructure, which includes the development of irrigation systems for both farming and aquaculture, mechanization processes, and modern storage facilities like warehouses and silos. He also highlighted the need to integrate information and communication technology to create a smarter, more interconnected agricultural system.
During the opening ceremony of SARA 2025, Adjoumani pointed out the considerable challenges that Africa faces regarding food security—pressures stemming from rapid population growth, urbanization, and climate change, which have collectively strained the continent's capacity to feed its population.
He drew attention to China's ability to feed approximately 20 percent of the global population using only 9 percent of the world's arable land, while still exporting significant surpluses. This achievement has positioned China as a leader in global agricultural production, serving as a model for others.
The minister expressed hopes that the SARA 2025 event would facilitate exploration of diverse new collaboration avenues and foster mutual learning, ultimately strengthening ties between nations and paving the way for a prosperous future for the peoples involved.
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