Rome, July 9-11, 2024 - The International Cooperative Agricultural Organization (ICAO) successfully held its EXCOM Meeting, General Meeting, and a special workshop in Rome, Italy, from July 9 to 11, 2024.

 

July 9 (Tuesday) - ICAO EXCOM Meeting
During the EXCOM Meeting, reports on the activities of 2023 were presented, and the 2024 work plan and budget were approved. Key discussions included the development of an AI-based digital platform, the promotion of agricultural product trade, and the implementation of sustainable agricultural projects across various regions. New project proposals were reviewed, and concrete plans were established to promote the sustainability and economic development of cooperatives. Following the meeting, an inauguration ceremony was held for the newly appointed President, Mr. Kang Ho-dong, and Vice President, Mr. Fukuzono. Both leaders emphasized the importance of strengthening cooperation among cooperatives and promoting sustainable agricultural development.



 

July 10 (Wednesday) - ICAO General Meeting
The General Meeting featured detailed presentations on the achievements and financial reports of 2023, alongside the announcement of various projects involving ICAO member countries. The meeting discussed leveraging AI technology, digitalizing agricultural cooperatives, and supporting new regional projects to enhance efficiency and cooperation among members. After the meeting, a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) has been signed between Malaysia’s ANGKASA and Uganda’s UCA to facilitate the import of Ugandan cocoa into Malaysia and to enhance cooperation in the cocoa industry. The agreement aims to establish a cocoa supply chain, share technology and expertise, and support the cocoa industry in both countries. Under this MOU, ANGKASA will be responsible for cocoa processing in Malaysia, while UCA will coordinate the production and supply of cocoa beans from Uganda, fostering agricultural trade and collaboration.​

July 11 (Thursday) - ICAO Workshop
The ICAO-Alleanza Workshop, titled "Fostering Generational Change in Agriculture: the Role of Cooperatives," was conducted. The workshop included a keynote address by Ms. Ileana Grandelis from FAO, highlighting the importance of engaging youth in the agricultural sector. Presentations covered various topics such as the role of cooperatives in fostering generational change, the challenges and opportunities faced by youth, and case studies on best practices from ICAO members, including projects from China, Japan, and Paraguay. The workshop aimed to provide insights and share successful strategies for involving younger generations in sustainable agricultural practices.
 

For more detailed information about the ICAO EXCOM Meeting, General Meeting, and Workshop, please refer to the attached file.