Expect stronger cooperation between China and UK on sustainable agriculture
— An interview with Mr. Jeremy Eppel from DEFRA, UK

“I’m excited about the prospect of stronger cooperation between China and the UK,” said Mr. Jeremy Eppel from the UK’s Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs when he was interviewed about the future of Sino-UK cooperation on sustainable agriculture. He went on to say: “This is my second visit to Northwest A&F University. The first time I heard of the University was at China’s Ministry of Agriculture, when I was told that it was one of the best and most well-respected agricultural universities in China. The first time I came was only for one day and I only managed to meet the President and some of Vice-Presidents. This time I have been able to visit the campus and look around the university and, most important, to meet many of the students and faculty. I am impressed with what I have seen; it’s obvious that the University has made a lot of effort to build a well equipped and attractive campus.”

Talking of his impressions on the Yangling International Agri-science Forum, Mr. Eppel, who has just finished reporting on the ‘Current Situation and Prospects for the UK’s Circular Economy and Sustainable Agriculture’ said: “I’m very glad to attend the forum and stay at the University for a few more days. Experts and scholars from different countries can share their research, discuss agricultural problems that concern people and the environment, and exchange new ideas. This promotes valuable interaction between agricultural experts in China, and abroad.” Mr. Eppel drew attention to the value of holding international fora, noting, “I hope the Forum will attract Chinese researchers to attend in greater numbers and perhaps in future include interpretation into Chinese if funding permits.”

                   
Talking of the prospect of Sino-UK cooperation, he said: “Yesterday the unveiling of SAIN provided a strong basis for strengthening Sino-UK cooperation. I believe we will cooperate well through SAIN. I’ve been in the UK government for a long time, but I’ve never experienced such enthusiastic cooperation not only between two countries, but between two strata (government and research institutions). I’m full of anticipation about successful on-going Sino-UK cooperation on agriculture through SAIN, and I’m looking forward to visiting Yangling and the University again in the future.”