March 25, 2024

Czech Republic eyes agricultural cooperation with Philippines

Czech Republic's Agriculture Minister Marek Vyborny announced plans for a cooperation deal with the Philippines' Department of Agriculture (DA), focusing on agriculture, water management, and forestry, including areas such as cattle breeding, Philippine News Agency reported.

Minister Vyborny's visit to Manila comes after Philippines' President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr's recent state visit to Czech Republic, underscoring growing bilateral ties.

Leading a business mission comprising 40 companies exploring investment opportunities in the Philippines, Minister Vyborny emphasised the potential for collaboration between the two countries. The upcoming agreement between Czech Republic and the DA aims to lay the groundwork for future cooperation initiatives.

Highlighting Czech Republic's expertise in technology transfer and agricultural advancements, Minister Vyborny mentioned areas such as cattle breeding, which can contribute to enhancing food production in the Philippines. This aligns with the Marcos administration's objective of achieving food security.

Czech Ambassador to the Philippines Karel Hejc echoed the sentiment, focusing on the need for migrant workers and the increased issuance of work permits for Filipinos. He highlighted the role of such exchanges in facilitating the transfer of technical knowledge and expertise between the two nations.

Jana Havrdova from the Czech Chamber of Commerce outlined the business mission's itinerary, which includes visits to Manila, Davao, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City. While acknowledging the longstanding relations between Czech Republic and Vietnam, Havrdova expressed optimism about the Philippines offering new opportunities for Czech businesses seeking expansion in the region.

-      Philippine News Agency