On the evening of September 8, the fourth session of the World AgriFood Innovation (WAFI) 2024 Summit Dialogue took place at the International Conference Center of China Agricultural University. Professor Shenggen Fan, Chair Professor at China Agricultural University and former Director General of the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), and Ambassador Kenneth M. Quinn, President Emeritus of The World Food Prize Foundation, engaged in a dialogue on "Climate Change & Agrifood Systems Transformation." Dr. Hongbo Liu, Deputy Secretary of the WAFI Advisory Committee, moderated the discussion. The event attracted a wide audience of students, scholars, and agricultural professionals, both online and in-person.

Figures: WAFI Summit Dialogue

During the dialogue, Ambassador Kenneth M. Quinn and Professor Shenggen Fan shared their extensive experiences and insights on agriculture and food security, engaging in an in-depth discussion on U.S.-China cooperation in tackling global food security challenges. Ambassador Quinn reflected on his longstanding connection with China in public diplomacy, recalling moments such as accompanying Professor Yuan Longping to receive the World Food Prize and witnessing key milestones in agricultural cooperation between China and the U.S. He emphasized that agricultural collaboration serves as a cornerstone of global peace and development, especially in the face of climate change. He highlighted the need for China and the U.S. to work together to address food security challenges.

Professor Fan outlined China's advancements in agricultural innovation and global food security through scientific research. He noted that China's efforts toward agricultural modernization and green development offer a valuable reference for global food security. Fan stressed that enhanced cooperation between China and the U.S. in agricultural technology, education, and policy will further drive the sustainable development of global agriculture.

When discussing the impact of climate change on agriculture, both Ambassador Quinn and Professor Fan agreed that it has become one of the most significant challenges facing global agriculture. Quinn pointed out that the agrifood system accounts for over one-third of the world’s total greenhouse gas emissions, making its transformation critical to mitigating climate change. He urged countries to increase investments in agricultural technology research, climate-smart farming, and sustainable practices to promote green transitions in agriculture. Professor Fan added that China Agricultural University and related research institutions are actively developing climate-resilient technologies and crop varieties to address future climate challenges. He also underscored the importance of international cooperation, asserting that China-U.S. collaboration in agriculture will provide a robust foundation for global food security.

In closing, both speakers offered advice on nurturing the next generation of agricultural researchers. They emphasized the importance of working closely with farmers and understanding their needs, encouraging young people to actively participate in agricultural research and fieldwork to contribute to global food security.

This Summit Dialogue serves as a vital prelude to the 2024 WAFI Conference. By hearing from world-class agricultural experts, participants gained a deeper understanding of the urgency and significance of agricultural innovation and climate change. In 2024, WAFI will continue to champion openness, cooperation, and innovation, fostering global exchanges and collaboration in agriculture to address the critical food security challenges facing humanity.