The 29th AMAF and the 7th AMAF+3

REPORT OF THE TWENTY-NINTH MEETING OF
THE ASEAN MINISTERS ON AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY
(29th AMAF)

1 November 2007, Bangkok


INTRODUCTION

1. The Twenty-Ninth Meeting of the ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry (AMAF) was held on 1 November 2007 in Bangkok.

2. The Meeting was attended by H.E. Pehin Dato Dr. Awang Haji Ahmad bin Haji Jumat, Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Brunei Darussalam; H.E. Chan Tong Yves, Secretary of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Cambodia; H.E Mr. M.S Kaban, Minister of Forestry, Indonesia; H.E. Dr. Sitaheng Rasphone, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Lao PDR; H.E Tan Sri Dato' Haji Muhyiddin bin Haji Mohd Yassin, Minister of Agriculture & Agro-Based Industry, Malaysia; H.E. Major General Htay Oo, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, Myanmar; H.E. Dr. Segfredo R. Serrano, Undersecretary, Department of Agriculture, Philippines; Dr. Mohamad Maliki bin Osman, Parliamentary Secretary for National Development, Ministry of National Development, Singapore; Professor Dr. Thira Sutabutra, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Thailand; H.E. Dr. Cao Duc Phat, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Viet Nam; and H.E Mr. NT Dammen, Deputy Secretary-General of ASEAN, and their respective delegations. The list of delegates appears as ANNEX 1.


CLOSED SESSION

Agenda Item 1: OPENING STATEMENT BY THE (OUTGOING) CHAIRMAN OF THE 28th AMAF

3. H.E Dr. Mohamad Maliki bin Osman, Parliamentary Secretary for National Development of Singapore delivered the opening statement on behalf of the out going Chairman of the 28th AMAF. In his Opening Statement, he extended warm welcome to all delegates and highlighted key achievements of ASEAN cooperation projects over the past years, particularly to enhance the international competitiveness of ASEAN’s products through the establishment of guidelines and standards in many areas. Notwithstanding of these achievements, many challenges, if not addressed could threaten the attainments of the goals of agriculture and forestry sectors. Outbreak of HPAI, establishment of an ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) by 2015, and forestry management are among the challenges. The full text of his Statement appears as ANNEX 2.



Agenda Item 2: ELECTION OF CHAIRMAN AND VICE-CHAIRMAN OF 28th AMAF

4. The Meeting unanimously elected H.E Professor Dr. Thira Sutabutra of Thailand and H.E Dr. Cao Duc Phat as the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of the 29th AMAF, respectively.


Agenda Item 3: REMARKS BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE 29th AMAF

5. H.E Professor Dr. Thira Sutabutra, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives of Thailand and Chairman of 29th AMAF, welcomed all delegates to the 29th Meeting of AMAF. In his Remarks, he extended his heartfelt thanks to the former Chairman of the 28th AMAF for invaluable contribution during the entire course of his chairmanship and looked forward to work closely with all Member Countries. The full text of his remarks appears as ANNEX 3.


Agenda Item 4: ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

6. The Meeting considered and adopted the Agenda which appears as ANNEX 4.


Agenda Item 5: BUSINESS ARRANGEMENTS

7. The Meeting was held in plenary.


Agenda Item 6: CONSIDERATION OF THE REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SOM-AMAF ON ASEAN SECTORAL COOPERATION ACTIVITIES

6.1 Areas of Cooperation and Endorsement of Documents

8. The Meeting considered and adopted the Report and Recommendations of the Chairman of SOM-AMAF on the progress of sectoral cooperation activities in food, agriculture and forestry. The report and recommendations appears as ANNEX 5. Significant progress was highlighted as follows:


REGIONAL FRAMEWORK AND POLICY GUIDANCE

9. Noting that globalization creates new market opportunities for ASEAN in international trade of agriculture and forestry products, trade liberalization, in-turn, also requires changes and adjustment in the pursuit of efficiency and competitiveness in food, agriculture and forestry sectors. Toward this end, the Meeting welcomed positive development toward building the ASEAN Community and economic integration. It was acknowledged that ASEAN cooperation in food, agriculture and forestry plays a vital role in strengthening food security, forging joint/common ASEAN positions at international fora and expediting development and integration in the region.

10. The Ministers expressed satisfaction on the progress made in the implementation of ASEAN collaborative programmes to enhance competitiveness of ASEAN’s food, agriculture and forestry products in international market, particularly through capacity building, use of modern technology, and adoption of international standards and practices.

11. The Meeting also welcomed closer coordination and partnership among various ASEAN bodies, addressed through the ASEAN Economic Coordinating Conference (ECOM), and Coordinating Conference on the ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community (SOC-COM) that were convened over the past year to coordinate the efforts by various sectoral bodies toward overall integration of ASEAN.

COOPERATION IN FOOD

12. The Meeting noted that significant progresses and achievements had been made in strengthening regional food security, including the two AMAF+3 projects, namely: the Pilot Project on East Asia Emergency Rice Reserve (EAERR) and the ASEAN Food Security Information System (AFSIS). The details and specific actions to be sought from AMAF and AMAF Plus Three were further elaborated under the Agenda item 7: Consideration of the Report and Recommendations of the Chairman of SOM-AMAF Plus Three on the Progress of ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Activities.

COOPERATION IN AGRICULTURE

13. The Meeting noted that as ASEAN embarks on regional integration and faces the challenge arising from global competition, ASEAN cooperation agenda has been designed towards enhancing ASEAN competitiveness, especially through improvement and alignment of ASEAN standards of agriculture and forest products, with those that are internationally recognized. The effort has been concertedly and continuously pursued for ASEAN to remain as a key player in an increasing competitive global market. The Meeting also considered and finalised a number of agreements and guidelines to further strengthen ASEAN cooperation in the areas of food, agriculture and forestry. At this Meeting, the Ministers have endorsed the following documents:

i. A list of additional ASEAN harmonised Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) of 16 pesticides, namely: carbendazim, folpet, malathion, methomy, buprofezin, bromopropylate, bitertanol, cycloxydim, etofenprox, paraquat, teflubenzuron, triadimenol, triadimefon, chlorpyrifos, cypermethrin, 2,4-D;

ii. ASEAN Harmonised Standards for Papaya, Pummelo and Rambutan;

iii. ASEAN Standard for Live Infectious Bronchitis Vaccine (revised), and Inactivated Infectious Bronchitis Vaccine (revised);

iv. Re-accreditation of the Veterinary Drug Assay Laboratory in Gunung Sindur, Bogor, Indonesia as an ASEAN Animal Vaccine Testing Laboratory for 9 specific animal vaccines for a period of 3 years;

v. Protocol to Amend the Agreement for the Establishment of ASEAN Animal Health Trust Fund (AHTF) to improve the effectiveness and efficiency in the operation of the Trust Fund

vi. MOU between the Governments of the Member Countries of the Association of South East Asian Nations and the World Organisation for Animal Health on Technical Cooperation” for signing by the Secretary-General of ASEAN and the Director-General of the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) to enable further assistance and technical cooperation.

vii. Hazard Guide – A Guide to the Identification and Control of Food Safety Hazards in the Production of Fish and Fisheries Products in the ASEAN Region;

viii. Guidelines on Development of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Health Certification and Quarantine Measures for the Responsible Movement of Live Food Finfish;

ix. Establishment of the ASEAN Shrimp Alliance (ASA) to enhance ASEAN’s capability to respond to challenges of international trade in shrimp and shrimp products; and

x. Establishment of the ASEAN Network on Aquatic Animal Health Centres (ANAAHC) as an ASEAN network to facilitate diagnostic and certification capabilities in ASEAN Member Countries critical for exporting live aquatic animals.

COOPERATION IN FORESTRY

14. The Meeting commended the ASEAN cooperation towards the attainment of sustainable forest management. Significant progress and achievements have been reached in several areas, among others: ASEAN cooperation and common positions in international forest policy processes, joint statement in the East Asia Forest Law Enforcement and Governance (EA-FLEG) process, and implementation of the Convention on the International Trade of Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

15. The Ministers also noted with satisfaction the progress made through coordinative efforts of the ASEAN Senior Officials in Forestry (ASOF) in the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF) and welcomed the setting up of an “ASEAN Caucus on Forestry at the UNFF” to enable effective coordination for the deliberation and negotiation process at the UNFF.


16. To unable ASEAN countries to monitor assess and report in compliance with the international forestry reporting requirements on progress towards the achievement of sustainable forest management in a standard format at the national and regional levels, the following ASEAN documents are endorsed by AMAF:

i. ASEAN Criteria and Indicators for Sustainable Management of Tropical Forests;

ii. Monitoring, Assessment and Reporting Format for Sustainable Forest Management in ASEAN; and

iii. ASEAN Guideline for the Implementation of IPF/IFF proposals for Action.

17. Pursuant to the launching of the East Asia Forest Law Enforcement and Governance (EA-FLEG) process, the Meeting supported ASOF’s engagement in the EA – FLEG dialogues and other regional FLEG processes, with a view to combat illegal logging and its associated trade of forest products in the region. The EA-FLEG dialogues have also sought closer ASEAN cooperation and further institutionalisation into an established regional mechanism involving governments, business, civil society and other ASEAN global partners. Reaffirming ASEAN’s commitment in combating illegal logging and its associated trade, the Ministers adopted the “Ministerial Statement on Strengthening Forest Law Enforcement and Governance (FLEG) in ASEAN”, which appears as Appendix 14 of the Chairman Report (i.e. ANNEX 5)

COLLABORATION WITH DIALOGUE PARTNERS AND THIRD PARTIES ON FOOD, AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY

18. The Meeting recognised the importance of assistance and partnership with international organisations and donor agencies. Hence, the Meeting agreed to enhance the working relationship between ASEAN and OIE through the signing of an MOU in order to enable further assistance in the fields of animal health, animal welfare and veterinary public health as well as other areas of common interest. In addition, to further enhance ASEAN-SEAFDEC collaboration in fisheries sector, the Meeting agreed to establish the “ASEAN-SEAFDEC Strategic Partnership (ASSP)” and signing of the Letter of Understanding (LOU) on the ASSP between the Secretary-General of ASEAN and the Secretary-General of SEAFDEC.

INTERVENTIONS BY MEMBER COUNTRIES ON THE REPORT OF SOM-CHAIRMAN

19. The Meeting congratulated SOM-AMAF on the achievements of the past year in the implementation of the ASEAN sectoral cooperation activities. Member Countries also provided additional observations and suggestions, which appear collectively as ANNEX 6.

6.2 Final report on the Implementation of Regional Framework on HPAI Control and Eradication and ASEAN HPAI Regional Strategy for the Progressive Control and Eradication of HPAI (2008-2010)

20. The Meeting took note and endorsed the report by Malaysia, as the Chairman of the HPAI Taskforce, on the progress in the implementation of the Regional Framework on HPAI Control and Eradication in ASEAN, which appears as ANNEX 7.

21. The Meeting noted with appreciation the progress and achievements made in the implementation of the eight components under the Regional Framework for Control and Eradication of HPAI in ASEAN. The Meeting also acknowledged the importance of partnership and support provided by various international organisations and donor agencies, especially for technical assistance and capacity building. Towards the conclusion of the “Regional Framework”, the Ministers adopted the “Final Report”, presented by the ASEAN HPAI Taskforce including endorsement of the ASEAN Regional Strategy for the Progressive Control and Eradication of HPAI (2008-2010) in the ‘Final Report’.

22. The Meeting reiterated the need for a well-coordinated multi-agency and multi-sectoral approach to prevent, control, and eradicate HPAI in the ASEAN region. Coordination is essential to ensure complementary efforts in the current and planned activities among Member Countries and ASEAN’s Dialogue Partners, and with international agencies (e.g. FAO, OIE, ADB, WHO, AusAID, JICA, USAID), that have provided support to various initiatives in the control of HPAI in ASEAN.

23. Considering the report by the ASEAN HPAI Taskforce, the FAO and OIE representatives who had been working closely with ASEAN Member Countries in addressing HPAI problems acknowledged of the new phase of the ASEAN ‘Regional Strategy’ is compatible with the principles and guidelines of the FAO/OIE Global Strategy for Control of Avian Influenza and expressed their continuing support for the implementation of the new strategy. The Meeting expressed appreciation for the assistance and support provided by FAO and OIE.

24. The Meeting took note of the Singapore’s comments on the implementation of ASEAN cooperation on the control and eradication of HPAI which appear as ANNEX 8.


Agenda Item 7: CONSIDERATION OF THE REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF CHAIRMAN OF SOM-AMAF PLUS THREE ON THE PROGRESS OF ASEAN PLUS THREE COOPERATION ACTIVITIES

25. The Meeting took note of the Report and recommendations of the Chairman of the SOM – AMAF Plus Three on the progress of implementation of various AMAF Plus Three cooperation activities, to be submitted for consideration and endorsement at the 7th Meeting of AMAF Plus Three on 2 November 2007. The Chairman’s Report appears as ANNEX 9,

26. The Meeting considered and agreed to the proposed extension of the EAERR Pilot Project and the proposed Project Implementation Plan (PIP) for the 2nd Phase of AFSIS Project. The Meeting also agreed to submit the new project proposals, submitted by China, Japan and ROK to the 7th Meeting of AMAF Plus Three for endorsement.

China’s Project Proposal

i. Forum on Quality Standards and International Trade of Edible Mushroom
ii. Training Course on ASEAN Food Security Information System
iii. Forum on Biomass Energy Exploration and Rural Economic Development for 10+3 Countries

Japan’s Project Proposal

i. East Asia Plant Variety Protection Forum

ROK’s Project Proposal

i. Support for the Enhancement of the Postharvest Management Technology for Fresh Agricultural Product
ii. Cooperation for the Improvement of Agricultural Extension Delivery System
iii. The 2nd Round of the Training Programme on Avian Influenza Diagnostic Technique
iv. The 3rd Round of the Training Programme on Plant Quarantine for ASEAN
v. The 4th Round of the Training Programme on the Agriculture Statistical Data Collection Analysis and Dissemination of Information

The above new project proposals appears as ANNEXES 10, 11 and 12.

27. The Meeting reviewed the on-going activities under the following six (6) priority areas of collaboration identified by AMAF Plus Three, namely:

i. Alleviating Poverty and Strengthening Food Security in the Asian Region;
ii. Research & Development on Food, Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry;
iii. Human Resource Development in Food, Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry;
iv. Coordination and Cooperation in International and Regional Issues in Food, Agriculture, Fisheries & Forestry;
v. Agriculture Information Networking and Exchange; and
vi. Trade Facilitation.

28. The Meeting noted that there had never been any activities/ projects offered/ undertaken for cooperation in certain areas, particularly under the “Trade Facilitation”. In recognizing the importance of trade related issues in cooperation with the Plus Three Countries, the Meeting recommended that SOM-AMAF Plus Three should enhance its cooperation in the areas of trade facilitation and market access. All Member Countries were requested to submit inputs/ proposals in this priority area to the ASEAN Secretariat, for consolidation to be considered at the next Special SOM-AMAF Meeting. The agreed ASEAN positions and proposals would then be submitted to AMAF Plus Three for consideration and further enhancement of the cooperation programmes.


Agenda Item 8: PREPARATION FOR THE 7th MEETING OF AMAF PLUS THREE

8.1 Provisional Agenda of 7th Meeting of AMAF Plus Three

29. The Meeting considered and agreed to propose the draft provisional agenda, which appears as ANNEX 13, for consideration by the 7th Meeting of the AMAF Plus Three.

30. The Meeting noted that the newly proposed Agenda Item 6.1: ‘ASEAN Cooperation on the Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry’ as proposed by Indonesia had not been discussed at the 7th SOM-AMAF Plus Three, held on 31 October 2007. The Meeting further agreed to submit the new agenda on climate change for consideration and adoption by the 7th AMAF Plus Three.

8.2 The 7th AMAF Plus Three Joint Press Statement

31. The Meeting considered and agreed to adopt the revised draft Joint Press Statement for consideration of the 7th Meeting of AMAF Plus Three, which appears as ANNEX 14.


Agenda Item 9: OTHER MATTERS

9.1 Consultative Session with Regional and International Organizations:

9.1.1 ASEAN-FAO

32. Dr. He Changchui, Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific, Food and Agriculture Organizations of the United Nations (FAO), delivered a Statement at the Meeting. The detailed information paper appears as ANNEX 15.

33. He highlighted the technical cooperation activities and issues in the areas of agriculture and forestry sectors that FAO has been working in ASEAN Member Countries over the past few years. The Meeting was informed that FAO has been engaged in control of transboundary animal diseases, in particular in collaboration with OIE on the issue of Avian Influenza.

34. Considering the opportunities and challenges in the region, FAO proposed a number of cooperation activities with ASEAN as follow:

a. Review of the existing MOU towards a strengthened cooperation mechanism on the emerging issues;
b. Cooperation for higher investments and provision of technical support in agricultural and rural sectors through formulating National Medium Term Priority Frameworks for Agriculture;
c. Promotion of South-South Cooperation through the arrangements between FAO and ASEAN Secretariat; and
d. Further exploration of enhanced mechanisms and cooperation activities on emerging issues such as biofuel, food security and climate changes.

35. The Meeting welcomed FAO’s proposed activities and gave its full support to strengthening ASEAN-FAO cooperation in the future.

9.1.2 ASEAN-IRRI

36. Dr. Noel Magor, Head of Training of the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) presented the updates on ASEAN-IRRI cooperation activities, which appears as ANNEX 16.

37. Recognising the growing pressure of Asia’s looming rice crisis caused by a range of factors such as population pressure, climate change, flood, land and water shortages, the presentation highlighted two important goals: 1) to educate and train the next generation of rice scientists and researchers in ASEAN and 2) to provide the farmers with access to the latest knowledge and technologies being developed for rice production.

38. The Meeting was informed that IRRI is working closely with ASEAN to accelerate the training of rice scientists and researchers to ensure rice food security in the region, despite the challenges being faced. At the same time, both organizations are looking toward accelerating the development of Rice Knowledge Bank through the connection of ASEAN Working Group on Agricultural Training and Extension.

39. The Meeting took note of technical cooperation, initiatives and training assistance rendered by IRRI and supported the continued cooperation in the future.

9.1.3 ASEAN-SEAFDEC

40. The Secretary-General of SEAFDEC informed the Meeting that further progress have been made in ASEAN-SEAFDEC cooperation since the 28th AMAF Meeting. He confirmed that, in collaboration with the Department of Fisheries of Thailand, the two ASEAN-SEAFDEC workshops endorsed by Special SOM-28th AMAF under the ASEAN-SEAFDEC Strategic Partnership (ASSP) framework would be held in Bangkok with funding from the Sweden International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) under the SEAFDEC-Sida project. The two workshops are the “Regional Consultation and Workshop on the Concept for the establishment of an ASEAN Fisheries Development and Management Mechanism”, 6-8 November 2007 and the “Regional Workshop on Implementation of the ASEAN Roadmap for the Integration of the Fisheries Sector”, 14-17 January 2008. SEAFDEC envisaged that the outputs from the two workshops could contribute towards ASEAN desire for greater integration of the fisheries sector.

41. He further expressed SEAFDEC’s gratitude and appreciation to AMAF for their interest in SEAFDEC activities and their strong support for ASEAN-SEAFDEC Cooperation and the ASSP. The Meeting was informed that ASEAN-SEAFDEC cooperation will be further strengthened with the signing of the LOU for the ASSP during the 29th AMAF Meeting. His presentation appears as ANNEX 17.

42. The Meeting reaffirmed its endorsement on the proposed LOU for signing by the Secretary-General of ASEAN and the Secretary-General of SEAFDEC.

9.2 ASEAN Cooperation on the Impact of Climate Change on Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry

43. Indonesia informed the Meeting on its initiative to take strategic actions and efforts in mitigating the impact of climate change. The Initiative appears as ANNEX 18.

44. In the wake of increasing international pressure on developing countries to shoulder the burden of opportunity cost associated with the impact of climate change, Indonesia informed the Meeting that ASEAN, as a regional entity, now need to work together with a common vision but differentiated responsibility to demonstrate a higher ethic and moral responsibility for the present and future generations. It was informed that the 13th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) will be hosted by Indonesia in Bali. In this occasion, Indonesia called on all ASEAN Member Countries to voice together and encourage the developed countries to contribute and take responsive actions towards mitigating the impact of global warming. The Meeting was informed that Indonesia would prepare a specific proposal for cooperation and circulate to all Member Countries through the Secretary-General of ASEAN in due time.

45. The Meeting noted Indonesia’s initiative and gave its support to take necessary steps and regional effort to address this emerging issue. The Meeting tasked SOM-AMAF to review and study this issue at the Special SOM-29th AMAF Meeting and provide recommendation for actions at the 30th AMAF Meeting in 2008.

46. The Chair opened the floor for any country to give general comments on the outcomes of the Meeting. Malaysia addressed the Meeting by offring her continuous leadership to the ASEAN HPAI Task Force in the implementation of the Regional Strategy for 2008 – 2010 and pledged her commitment to manage her forest resources in a sustainable manner. Malaysia also hoped ASEAN would continue to work together to turn ASEAN into a single market and production base for food, agriculture and forestry products by the year 2015 when the ASEAN Economic Community is finalized.


Agenda Item 10: JOINT PRESS STATEMENT FOR 29TH AMAF

47. The Meeting considered and adopted the Joint Press Statement for the 29th Meeting of the AMAF, which appears as ANNEX 19.

Agenda Item 11: DATE AND VENUE OF NEXT MEETING OF AMAF

48. The Meeting agreed that the 30th Meeting of AMAF would be held in 2008 in Viet Nam. Confirmation and information of the dates and venue would be conveyed to Member Countries in due course.

Agenda Item 12: ADOPTION OF THE REPORT

49. The Meeting considered and adopted the Report of the 29th Meeting of AMAF held on 1 November 2007 in Bangkok.


ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

50. The delegations of Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Viet Nam, and the ASEAN Secretariat expressed their appreciation to the Government and People of Thailand for the warm hospitality accorded them and the excellent arrangements made for the Meeting. The Meeting also thanked the ASEAN Secretariat for the assistance rendered.

51. The Meeting was held in the traditional spirit of ASEAN cooperation and cordiality.


Bangkok
1 November 2007
******


Final

SUMMARY RECORD OF
THE SEVENTH MEETING OF THE ASEAN MINISTERS ON AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY PLUS THREE
(7th AMAF+3)

2 November 2007, Bangkok



INTRODUCTION

1. The Seventh Meeting of the ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry Plus Three was held on 2 November 2007 in Bangkok.

2. The Meeting was attended by H.E. Pehin Dato Dr. Haji Ahmad Haji Jumat, Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Brunei Darussalam; H.E. Chan Tong Yves, Secretary of State, Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Cambodia; H.E. Mr. MS Kaban, Minister of Forestry, Indonesia; H.E. Mr. Sitaheng Raspone, Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Lao PDR; H.E. Tan Sri Dato' Haji Muhyiddin bin Haji Mohd Yassin, Minister of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry, Malaysia; H.E. Major General Htay Oo, Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, Myanmar; H.E. Dr. Segfredo R. Serrano, Undersecretary, Department of Agriculture, Philippines; H.E. Dr. Mohamad Maliki bin Osman, Parliamentary Secretary for National Development, Singapore; H.E. Professor Dr. Thira Sutabutra, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Thailand; H.E. Dr. Cao Duc Phat, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Viet Nam; and H.E. Mr. Ong Keng Yong, Secretary-General of ASEAN, and their respective delegations. The Plus Three side was attended by H.E. Mr. Wei Chao'an, Vice Minister of Agriculture, People’s Republic of China; H.E. Mr. Hiromi Iwanaga, Senior Vice-Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan; and H.E. Dr. Park Hae-Sang, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Republic of Korea; and their respective delegation. The list of delegates appears as ANNEX 1.


OPENING SESSION

3. H.E Professor Dr. Thira Sutabutra, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives of Thailand, welcomed all the ASEAN Ministers on Agriculture and Forestry Plus Three Countries (AMAF+3) and their respective delegations to the Meeting. The full text of his Welcome Remarks appears as ANNEX 2.

4. The Meeting was officially opened by H.E. General Surayud Culanont (Retired), Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand. In his Opening Remark, he extended his warm welcome to all delegations. The Prime Minister highlighted that as ASEAN has grown 40 years, the organization is moving vibrant and integrating more intensely. At a time ASEAN Charter is set to be agreed at the forthcoming Summit in Singapore later this month, he pointed out that ASEAN’s aspiration into realization of the ‘ASEAN Community’ is taking shape. He expressed his pleasure to see the cooperation under the AMAF and AMAF+3 that have contributed toward fight against poverty of rural-poor farmers.

5. His Excellency stressed that agriculture remains a crucial part of daily lives and heritage, throughout Asia, amidst rapid socio-economic changes. In this regard, sustainable development of agriculture continues to be the main goal and still gains much impetus from the various initiatives under the AMAF and AMA+3 frameworks. In case of Thailand, sustainable livelihoods for the farmers have intimately linked to the His Majesty the King’s philosophy of ‘Sufficiency Economy’ and ‘New Theory of Agriculture’, which outlines how formers may achieve self-sufficiency and sustainability through integrated farm management techniques. He also recognizes the useful knowledge and experience of several other models that can provide valuable lessons, including the Korean Saemaul Movement that can be shared together with the Thai’s model of sustainability to help strengthening rural communities.

6. Touching on regional and global level, the Prime Minister highlighted a number of issues and challenges, commonly faced and required concerted efforts in addressing them as for mutual interests and concerns. These included, among others, global warming and climate change that have significant impacts on agriculture and forestry throughout the world, importance of rice as staple food for all ASEAN+3 countries and the collective efforts in enhancing rice productivity and promoting food security, capacity building on livestock health, animal disease control and addressing the threat of avian flu.

7. He also specifically stressed the importance for ASEAN+3 to increase their attention and cooperate closely in development of bio-fuel technologies. Given abundance of agricultural crops and technological know-how, several crops including sugar cane, cassava, coconut, and oil palm are notable as region’s crop options to be explored in order to imprve access to energy alongside ensuring food security.

8. In conclusion, the Prime Minister urged that through concerted efforts ASEAN Plus Three Countries can drastically reduce the use of fossil fuels, effectively contribute to climate change mitigation and adaptation, and ensure the sustainable common future. He showed his confidence that the shared vision will guide ASEAN and Plus Three Countries towards a mutually beneficial partnership for the sustainable development in agriculture and forestry.

9. The full text of Opening Remarks by the Prime Minister appears as ANNEX 3.






CLOSED SESSION

Agenda Item 1: OPENING STATEMENT BY THE CHAIRMAN OF THE 7TH AMAF + 3

10. In his opening remarks, H.E. Professor Dr. Thira Sutabutra, Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, Thailand and Chairman of the 7th AMAF Plus Three, welcomed the Ministers from ASEAN, People’s Republic of China, Japan and People’s Republic of Korea, and their delegations to the Meeting, expressing confidence that the Meeting would provide a valuable platform for ASEAN Plus Three to further strengthen cooperation in the food, agriculture and forestry sectors for mutual benefit. The full text of the opening statement appears as ANNEX 4.

11. Pursuant to the Opening Statement, Mr. Manoon Pumkllom, Director of Agricultural Service Center of the Chaipattana Foundation of Thailand, made a presentation on “Sufficiency Economy: New Theory in Agriculture”, which appears as ANNEX 5.

12. The Meeting noted that Sufficiency Economy is the philosophy, on which His Majesty the King has expressed as a guideline for the populace to lead their lives and behave through practicing three key aspects: 1) Moderation; 2) Reasonableness; and 3) Risk Management (or “Immune System”). It was noted that the Sufficiency Economy philosophy is concretely translate into a practical way to improve farmers’ quality life by implementing the New Theory in Agriculture. The ‘New Theory’ is the most distinct concrete example of the application of the Sufficiency Economy through administration and management of land and water in farming to achieve the highest benefit, based on a guideline or principle of “reducing the risk rather than to increase the income”. The New Theory contributes toward sustainable development of agriculture in terms of economy, society and environment.


Agenda Item 2: REMARKS BY CHINA, JAPAN AND THE REPUBLIC OF KOREA

13. H.E. Mr. Wei Chaoan, Vice Minister of Agriculture, People’s Republic of China delivered the remarks with his appreciation to the Government of Thailand for their warm hospitality and excellent arrangements for the Meeting. He agreed on and appreciated the new theory of self sufficient economy raised by the Royal Thai Government. China is willing to share with ASEAN Member Countries, Japan and Korea on the experience in developing agricultural production. He briefed the Meeting on the latest developments of China economy in relation to agriculture sector, policy towards enhancing agriculture productivity and rural development, progress of China-ASEAN agriculture cooperation activities within ASEAN-China and Plus Three framework in 2007, and other regional activities on relevant issues. He mentioned the cooperation activities in details and in particular to the progress made in China-ASEAN agriculture cooperation. He informed the Meeting of the renewal of MOU on agricultural cooperation between China and ASEAN. It was informed that China will make continuous contribution to the exchange and cooperation with ASEAN Member Countries under this framework. China welcome suggestions and recommendation for the upcoming cooperation activities from ASEAN as well as from Japan and Korea. The full text of his Opening Statement appears as ANNEX 6.

14. H.E. Mr. Hiromi Iwanaga, Senior Vice Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Japan extended his appreciation to the Government and People of Thailand for their support in preparation of the Meeting and warm hospitality accorded to them. He highlighted the importance of proper agricultural development which leads to socio-economic stability of the country. On the issues related to WTO negotiations, he expressed Japan’s position on “coexistence of various types of agriculture” and its effort to maintain harmonious development under different production situations. He reiterated Japan’s commitment and support in the projects such as EAERR and AFSIS under the ASEAN+3 framework with the objectives for food security, conservation of natural environment and resources, sustainable forest management, and proper utilization of biomass resources. Finally, he stressed that Japan’s assistance and cooperation would be linked and strengthened in view of growing and developing together with East Asia, pursuing active Asian diplomacy. The full text of his remarks appears as ANNEX 7.

15. H.E. Dr. Park, Hae Sang, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, Republic of Korea delivered his opening remarks with appreciation to the Government and People of Thailand. He briefed the Meeting on the significance of agriculture cooperation within the region, agricultural policy direction of Korea, and progress made by the agricultural cooperation projects initiated by Korea in the past year. Based on the experience over the past 6 years, he mentioned that the new projects are prepared to meeting the requirements of the participating countries. Finally, he briefed two new cooperation projects proposed by Korea specifically on “the enhancement of the post-harvest management technology for fresh agricultural products” and “cooperation for the improvement of agricultural extension delivery system”. The full text of his opening remarks appears as ANNEX 8.

16. Malaysia expressed its appreciation for the continued cooperation and assistance rendered by the Plus Three Countries and requested that future assistance programmes should consider providing specific training to meeting SPS requirements of ASEAN Member Countries and conducting comparative studies to facilitate agricultural trade in the region.

17. Myanmar welcomed the assistance given and new project proposals of Plus Three Countries particularly in human resources development issues that are found to be highly relevant and relevant to current needs of ASEAN Member Countries. It was suggested that more attention should be given to enhance the competitiveness of ASEAN agriculture sector with specific focus on quality improvement and better market access for agricultural and food commodities.



Agenda Item 3: ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

18. The Meeting adopted the agenda which appears as ANNEX 9.


Agenda Item 4: BUSINESS ARRANGEMENTS

19. The Meeting was held in plenary.


Agenda Item 5: CONSIDERATION OF THE REPORT AND RECOMMENDATIONS OF CHAIRMAN OF SOM-AMAF PLUS THREE ON THE ASEAN PLUS THREE COOPERATION ACTIVITIES

20. The Chairman of SOM 7th AMAF Plus Three briefed the Meeting on the Progress of ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation Activities, highlighting EAERR project activities, implementation of the 2nd phase of AFSIS project, research and development activities, human resources development training activities, and 9 new project proposals proposed by Plus Three Countries for consideration of 7th AMAF. The Meeting took note of the Report and Recommendations of the Chairman of SOM 7th AMAF Plus Three, which appears as ANNEX 10.

21. Regarding the current issues of ASEAN Plus Three cooperation, China expressed its support on the extension of East Asia Emergency Rice Reserve (EAERR) Pilot Project for another one year and the proposed project implementation plan for the 2nd phase of ASEAN Food Security Information System (AFSIS) Project. Regarding the proposal by Japan on the establishment of “East Asia Plant Variety Protection Forum”, China acknowledged the efforts made by Japan to assist UPOV in East Asia affairs, agreed on the arrangements of organizing the regular Meetings, rotating presidency, and suggested the detailed working mechanism of the forum will be discussed among the members for endorsement by AMAF+3 Countries.

22. Japan assured its support for one-year extension of EAERR Pilot Project, 2nd Phase of AFSIS Project, and encouraged all other Member Countries to provide their support at a possible extent.

23. Korea welcomed the report and recommendations of the SOM-7th AMAF+3 and ensured its continued support for continuous activities.

24. Singapore expressed its support for the recommendations made by the Chairman of SOM-7th AMAF+3 and extended its appreciation to Plus Three Countries. The supported comments issued by Singapore appear as ANNEX 11.

25. Viet Nam extended its full support and endorsed the report and recommendations of the Chairman. On HPAI prevention and control, Viet Nam requested the Plus Three Countries for their close cooperation in the future. Viet Nam assured the Meeting its continued engagement and cooperation in this matter.

26. The Meeting took note of the Report and Recommendations of the Chairman of SOM-AMAF Plus Three and adopted the report.


5.1 East Asia Emergency Rice Reserve (EAERR)

27. The Meeting was informed of the latest developments of EAERR Pilot Project and issues being discussed at recent Project Steering Committee and related Meetings. It was informed that a final report on the Evaluation of EAERR activities has been completed and the future direction of EAERR Project has been considered during the recent Project Steering Committee Meetings. The final outcomes and recommendations of the EAERR related Meetings have been reported to the SOM-7th AMAF+3 Meeting for further recommendations.

28. Japan expressed its intention for continued funding support for the extension of the Pilot Project. China also gave its full support to the project evaluation report and extension of the Pilot Project for one more year to ensure the implementation of the activities before making a final decision on the establishment of a permanent scheme.

29. Considering the forthcoming end of the EAERR Pilot Project extension in February 2008 and the necessary preparation towards the possible establishment of a permanent scheme, the Meeting endorsed the extension of the Pilot Project for one more year until 2009.


5.2 Proposal for the 2nd Phase of AFSIS

30. Thailand briefed the Meeting on the progress of the activities of AFSIS Project that have been carried out throughout the year. The Meeting was informed that following AMAF endorsement of the project for Phase 2, the Project Implementation Plan (PIP) Phase 2 was prepared and endorsed by the Special SOM-28th AMAF. It was informed that the Project Phase 2 is scheduled to commence in January 2008 and would be operational for 5 years and that the project would be financed by Japan.

31. The Meeting welcomed the financial support by Japan and endorsed the PIP Phase 2 activities.


5.3 New Project Proposals

32. The Meeting was informed of 9 new project proposals; three projects by China, one by Japan and five projects by Korea.

5.3.1 China

33. China informed the Meeting of the following 3 project proposals for consideration and approval of the 7th AMAF+3 Meeting.

i. Forum on Quality Standards and International Trade of Edible Mushroom

ii. Training Course on ASEAN Food Security Information System

iii. Forum on Biomass Energy Exploration and Rural Economic Development for 10+3 Countries

34. The detailed information on the time, venue, objectives and activities proposed for the above project activities appear in ANNEX 12.

5.3.2 Japan

i. New Project Proposal: East Asia Plant Variety Protection Forum

35. Japan proposed a new project proposal entitled “East Asia Plant Variety Protection Forum”. The detailed information paper for this project proposal appears as ANNEX 13.

36. The Meeting shared recognition on the importance of continuous discussion and cooperation for implementation of internationally harmonised plant variety protection systems and welcomed the project proposal.

5.3.3 ROK

37. Korea informed the Meeting on the following 5 project proposals, details of which appear as ANNEX 14. The Meeting noted that some of the training courses were the continuation of the same courses conducted from 2005 to 2007.

i. Support for the Enhancement of the Postharvest Management Technology for Fresh Agricultural Product
ii. Cooperation for the Improvement of Agricultural Extension Delivery System
iii. The 2nd Round of the Training Programme on Avian Influenza Diagnostic Technique
iv. The 3rd Round of the Training Programme on Plant Quarantine for ASEAN
v. The 4th Round of the Training Programme on the Agriculture Statistical Data Collection Analysis and Dissemination of Information

38. The Meeting welcomed the proposals made by China, Japan and Korea and endorsed 9 project proposals to be implemented in the year 2008.

5.4 ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation on the Control of Bird Flu

39. The Meeting was informed by the Chairman of the ASEAN HPAI Taskforce from Malaysia on the progress of cooperation on the control and eradication of HPAI in the region following the endorsement by the 27th AMAF Meeting in Manila on 29 September 2005. The report covered the implementation progress of the Regional Framework for Control and Eradication of HPAI in ASEAN (2006 – 2008) regarding its eight components namely (i) Disease Surveillance and Alert System; (ii) Containment Measures; (iii) Stamping Out Policy and Strategic Vaccination; (iv)Diagnostic Capabilities; (v) Establishment of Disease Free Zones/Compartments for Recovery of Export Capacity; (vi) Information Sharing; (vii) Emergency Preparedness Plans; and (viii) Public Awareness and Communication. The progress report by Malaysia appears as ANNEX 15.

40. The Ministers from the Plus Three Countries were informed of the establishment of the ASEAN Animal Health Trust Fund (AAHTF), which is open to financial contributions from ASEAN Dialogue Partners, international organisations and the private sector for implementing mutual and sustainable animal disease control programmes in ASEAN. In this regards, the Plus Three Countries were requested to consider the contributions to the Trust Fund for mutually beneficial projects and activities.

41. Singapore expressed its strong support on the initiatives taken to control HPAI in the region and appreciated the support given by the Plus Three Countries. The comments made by Singapore appear as ANNEX 16.


Agenda Item 6: OTHER MATTERS

42. Indonesia informed the Meeting that as highlighted in the Opening Remarks of His Excellency - Prime Minister of Thailand on the urgency to address the impact of climate change, Indonesia plans to pursue a closer cooperation from Member Countries and develop a strategic plan of actions on this emerging issue. The Meeting was informed that Indonesia will prepare a specific proposal for cooperation and circulate to all Member Countries through the Secretary-General of ASEAN in due course.

43. The Meeting noted Indonesia’s initiative and gave its support to take necessary steps and regional effort to address this emerging issue. The Meeting noted that this issue will be deliberated at the Special SOM-29th AMAF Meeting and provide recommendation for actions at the 30th AMAF and 8th AMAF+3 Meeting in 2008.




Agenda Item 7: JOINT PRESS STATEMENT

44. The Meeting considered and endorsed the Joint Press Statement, which appears as ANNEX 17.


Agenda Item 8: DATE AND VENUE OF NEXT MEETING

45. Viet Nam informed that the 8th AMAF Plus Three Meeting would be held in Hanoi tentatively in October 2008. Viet Nam will officially confirm the venue and dates in due course.

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

46. The Delegations from all other ASEAN Plus Three Member Countries expressed their appreciation to the Government and People of Thailand for the excellent arrangement made for the Meeting and the warm hospitality accorded to them. The Meeting also thanked the ASEAN Secretariat for the assistance rendered.

47. The Meeting was held in the spirit of ASEAN Plus Three cooperation and cordiality.

Bangkok
2 November 2007.
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