PRAGUE—Czech Agriculture Minister Marek Výborný is poised to visit the Philippines next week to pave the way for robust cooperation aimed at bolstering food security endeavors.
This diplomatic engagement aligns closely with President Ferdinand Marcos’ strategic vision to broaden collaboration with the Czech Republic, particularly in the realm of food security.
During a joint press conference, Czech President Petr Pavel disclosed plans to lead a delegation of prominent businessmen, expressing keen interest in exploring investment opportunities within the agricultural sector and other pivotal industries.
“Very soon our Minister of Agriculture shall visit the Philippines with a numerous delegation of our businessmen with specific, particular plans to offer,” Pavel said.
“We also have companies that are involved in defense industry, manufacturing, in farming and agriculture, science, technology, energy sector, power sector, many of these businesses do have a particular specific plan for the future cooperation with the Philippines,” he added.
Minister Výborný is slated to hold discussions with Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel and spearhead a business forum scheduled in Makati City on March 21.
The delegation’s itinerary also includes a visit to Davao for a business forum and an immersive farm visit at the Tagum Agricultural Development Company, Inc. (Tadeco) on the subsequent day.
The Czech Republic has become a key partner for the Philippines, offering vital support in analyzing and improving value chains in the Philippine dairy sector.
Through the Czech Aid-for-Trade program, the National Dairy Authority’s (NDA) proposal received backing for expert technical exchanges, aligning with the DA’s five-year plan to boost milk production from one to 10 percent.
The NDA effectively carried out two joint projects with the Czech Republic: the Expert Assistance in Analyzing the Supply Chain of the Philippine Dairy Industry in 2018, and the Capacity Building for Dairy Farmers and Extension Workers project in 2019.