Kathmandu: The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Nepal hosted the 2024 Korea-Nepal Agriculture Cooperation Seminar in Kathmandu on December 8, celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The seminar focused on the expanding collaboration between South Korea and Nepal in the agricultural sector, following the signing of a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on November 2, 2023.
The MoU is aimed at enhancing cooperation in agricultural science and technology, livestock production, and agricultural processing. It will also enable institutions like the Nepal Agricultural Research Council and the Korea Agricultural Research Council to advance joint research in the agricultural field.
A delegation from the KOPIA Division, part of Korea’s Rural Development Administration, also attended the seminar, expressing their intention to establish a KOPIA Center in Nepal. This center will serve as a hub for agricultural innovation and technical support in the country.
During the event, South Korean Ambassador to Nepal highlighted the longstanding agricultural cooperation between the two countries. “Agriculture has been a cornerstone of our cooperation, reflecting our shared commitment to the prosperity of rural communities and sustainable development,” the Ambassador stated. He also noted the establishment of the Korea-Nepal Model Dairy Village in Kamalamai Municipality, Sindhuli District, which was created to mark the 50th anniversary of bilateral ties.
The Ambassador further emphasized South Korea’s active engagement through the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), which has supported various initiatives aimed at boosting agricultural productivity and improving rural livelihoods in Nepal. These initiatives include increasing incomes in rural areas, developing the value chain for fruits and vegetables, and enhancing rural development programs.
Looking to the future, the Ambassador announced plans for technical research through the KOPIA project starting in 2025, aimed at improving the productivity of essential crops like rice and potatoes in Nepal. He also outlined how KOICA and KOPIA would collaborate to modernize Nepal’s agriculture, enhance food security, and support rural communities.
“We are committed to deepening our agricultural partnership with Nepal by sharing expertise, technology, and resources. Together, we can create resilient and sustainable agricultural systems that ensure prosperity for generations to come,” the Ambassador concluded.
The seminar marks a significant step forward in the agricultural collaboration between South Korea and Nepal, reinforcing the two countries’ commitment to mutual growth and development in the sector.