Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and representatives of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have signed a Cooperation Framework for the 2012-2016 period. According to the Cooperation Framework released on Oct 14, the FAO will continue to help Vietnam effectively use technical and financial assistance, contributing to ensuring food security and nutrition, developing agro-forestry-aquatic production, and raising the standard of living for people in rural areas. In the next five years, the cooperation program will focus on helping Vietnam build a legal framework and policies on livelihood, nutrition and food security, and reduce the negative impacts of climate change. Jong Ha Bae, FAO’s chief representative in Vietnam urged the country to restructure its agricultural sector by increasing productivity and quality of products as well as strengthening mechanization and the added value chain. Vietnam’s agricultural sector contributes 20% to the country’s gross domestic products (GDP). About 75% of the population lives in the rural areas. (Nong Thon Ngay Nay – Countryside Today Oct 15 p10)
