Zhang Zhu, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, met with Mihai Popsoi, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Moldova, in Beijing on May 22. 

Minister Zhang noted that China and Moldova are traditional and friendly partners. Under the joint guidance of the leaders of both countries, bilateral relations have maintained strong momentum, and cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative is advancing steadily, delivering benefits to both peoples. He said agriculture remains a key pillar of China–Moldova cooperation. During the 15th Five-Year Plan period, China will continue to balance output with production capacity, production with ecological sustainability, and increased production with farmers’ incomes. China will also focus on enhancing the overall productivity, quality, and efficiency of agriculture. Minister Zhang added that China stands ready to deepen cooperation with Moldova across all agricultural sectors, boost agro-trade, promote agricultural investment and exchanges in agricultural science and technology, and further unlock the potential of bilateral cooperation, so as to take agricultural ties between the two countries to new heights. 

Minister Popsoi said Moldova attaches great importance to agricultural cooperation with China and hopes to strengthen exchanges and cooperation with China in areas including the grape and wine industry, e-commerce for agricultural products, and smart agriculture. 

Tao Huaiying, China’s Chief Veterinary Officer, and Pan Wenbo, Chief Agronomist, attended the meeting.