The Sino-German Agricultural Centre (DCZ) Steering Committee met on 16 January 2025 at the German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture (BMEL) to chart its course for the coming year. With a focus on ecological farming, sustainable resource use, and fostering Sino-German dialogue in agroecology, the 2025 Work Plan reflects the Centre’s dedication to deepening bilateral cooperation in agriculture.
The meeting brought together key representatives from BMEL, including Ms. Rebecka Ridder, who chaired the session, along with Ms. LIN Huifang, Deputy Managing Director of the Foreign Economic Cooperation Centre (FECC) of the Chinese Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs (MARA). Their presence underscored the high-level political commitment to DCZ’s mission.
DCZ Managing Directors WANG Geng and Jürgen RITTER reviewed the Centre’s key achievements in 2024 and presented an outlook with key topics and themes for 2025, including ecological agriculture, sustainable use of soil and water, as well as animal health and welfare.
Amidst budgetary challenges, the meeting highlighted opportunities to enhance co-financing efforts and broaden partnerships. The DCZ’s pivotal role as a platform for innovative solutions in agriculture was reaffirmed, setting the stage for continued progress in sustainable practices and international collaboration.
Following the meeting, FECC representatives participated in the Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) in Berlin. During the event, the DCZ hosted a panel on innovative biomass energy solutions, providing a platform for dialogue on cutting-edge developments in sustainable energy. Additionally, the FECC delegates engaged with leaders from GFA, the general agent responsible for BMEL’s bilateral cooperation programs, including its partnership with China, further strengthening ties and exploring avenues for collaboration.