Shanghai preserves agri-heritage through global youth program

Young representatives from 13 countries gathered in Shanghai to launch a program focused on developing sustainable approaches to preserving agricultural heritage systems.

The three-day event, which commenced on Monday under the theme "Youth action on green agri-heritage", combines China's agricultural cultural heritage with global youth innovation through field visits, roundtable dialogues and co-creation camps.

As the country with the largest number of Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS), China has always contributed to the world its oriental wisdom, and this program is an exploration of international communication to help civilizational dialogue, according to Gao Anming, editor-in-chief of China International Communications Group and director of China Internet Information Center.

In his video address, Gao emphasized the contemporary relevance of agricultural heritage. "Agricultural heritage is not merely a museum specimen but a fountain of wisdom for humanity to address current challenges," he said. "Each cross-border dialogue contributes to building a shared future for humanity."

Zhou Lijin, FAO China program officer, underscored youth involvement as central to heritage preservation. "Young people are not just inheritors and beneficiaries but drivers of agricultural heritage," she said. "The World Food Forum China provides an essential platform for young people to channel their enthusiasm and creativity into agricultural innovation."

Zeng Zixin, program officer at the center of international cooperation service, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, highlighted China's commitment to the GIAHS initiative since its launch in 2002. "China's efforts will transform agricultural cultural heritage into valuable resources for rural revitalization while contributing to global food security and the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals."

Min Qingwei, an agricultural heritage expert from the Chinese Academy of Sciences, identified three key aspects of the initiative: its international scope, youth focus, and broad appeal beyond agriculture. "Agricultural heritage can only maintain its vitality if young people participate and understand it," Min said.