Minister said, "Taking this APEC food security Ministerial meeting as an opportunity, we will actively promote the concretization of cooperation projects, diversification of diplomatic channels, and the strengthening of food security response capabilities."
Minister Song Mi-ryeong of the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs said at a press conference after the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) food security Ministerial meeting held on the 10th in Songdong, Incheon, "Countries around the world recognized climate change as a problem and cited technology as a solution."
On that day, the 21 APEC member economies adopted a joint statement consisting of 13 items. It included content to expand cooperation and promote technological innovation to enhance food security. Achieving food security through trade was also included. There was even a phrase stating that "constructive discussions on agriculture at the World Trade Organization (WTO) are needed."
In response, Minister Song said, "There are countries that find it difficult to achieve food security without relying on trade," adding, "The common understanding among member economies is that securing a global supply chain is necessary to achieve food security." He further noted, "The current food security crisis we are facing is a climate crisis," emphasizing that "joint responses yield better results than individual responses from each country."
When asked if the clause relates to tariff negotiations between the United States and other countries, he replied, "No," and added, "View it as an 'opening' aimed at strengthening connectivity among public and private sectors, producers, consumers, and entities involved in production, distribution, and consumption."
Regarding cooperation with corporations for agricultural innovation, he stated, "To achieve food security in the context of the climate crisis and demographic changes, technological innovation is crucial, and corporations are responsible for developing and disseminating it." He added, "Collaboration with corporations is a very important task."
Minister Song promoted K-food, agricultural machinery, and materials through this event, expressing expectations for expanded overseas exports.
Minister Song noted, "The Russian chief delegate mentioned that he grew up eating Choco Pie since he was a child and taught me how to enjoy it more deliciously, while Japan's Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries Shinjiro Koizumi said he likes Japchae among Korean dishes."
Regarding the impression of Minister Koizumi, Minister Song said, "It was delightful and good," and noted, "Two weeks ago, his wife and children visited Seoul for vacation, and he also mentioned that young people in Japan like Korea."
Minister Koizumi is considered a top candidate for the next prime minister amid increasing speculation about the resignation of Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
Minister Song will attend the Korea-China-Japan agriculture Ministerial meeting in connection with the APEC food security Ministerial meeting on the 11th. Minister Song said, "The Korea-China-Japan agriculture Ministerial meeting is being held for the first time in seven years," adding, "We will discuss the three countries' agricultural digital strategies and livestock diseases, and confirm our joint positions."