Participants of the 23rd ASJA-ASCOJA-JAOL International Symposium gather for a group photo at the Lao Plaza Hotel in Vientiane on September 12.

Japan alumni of Laos host International Symposium, push for TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE FOOD SYSTEM, Cooperation for Climate-Smart Agriculture and Innovation ASEAN-JAPAN

The Japan Alumni of Laos (JAOL) hosted the 23rd International Symposium in Vientiane on September 12 to boost cooperation on sustainable food systems and climate-smart agriculture.
The event, held at the Lao Plaza Hotel, gathered experts, researchers and alumni networks from Japan and the 10 ASEAN member states, with strong backing from the Asia Japan Alumni (ASJA)  International and the ASEAN Council of Japan Alumni (ASCOJA).

The Ambassador of Japan to Laos, Mr Tsutomu Koizumi.

The President of the Japan Alumni of Laos, Ms Buasone Vongthavone, said the symposium under the theme “Toward Sustainable Food System Cooperation for Climate-Smart Agriculture and Innovation ASEAN–Japan” created space to blend knowledge with practice, where ASEAN experience meets Japanese technology and support to design food systems that are sustainable, climate-smart, and resilient.
The Ambassador of Japan to Laos, Mr Tsutomu Koizumi, emphasised the special significance of the 23rd ASJA-ASCOJA-JAOL International Symposium, which coincided with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Laos and Japan. He highlighted the importance of ASEAN–Japan cooperation in climate-smart agriculture as both regions face common challenges from climate change.
Ambassador Koizumi said the theme was timely because agriculture is highly vulnerable to climate change.
“The ASEAN region and Japan have many similarities with respect to their agricultural production environment, characterised by high temperatures and humidity, and agriculture centred around paddy fields run mainly by small scale farms,” he said.
“I believe, therefore, that mutual learning and cooperation in climate change mitigation and adaptation in agriculture would be of paramount significance.”
The programme featured opening remarks from the Secretary General of the Asia Japan Alumni International, Mr Kazuhisa Matsuoka.
The event was honoured by the presence of President of the Laos-Japan Friendship Association, Dr Phout Simmalavong, highlighting the strong support and guidance the network continues to receive.
Keynote speakers included the Agricultural Policy Advisor of the Japan International Cooperation Agency, Mr Takamitsu Matsuo, who presented the ASEAN-Japan MIDORI Cooperation Plan, and a representative of the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, who highlighted investment opportunities in the agriculture sector of Laos.

Country presentations from alumni chapters across ASEAN showcased national innovations and best practices in sustainable farming and food security, underlining the importance of regional collaboration and mutual learning among ASEAN and Japan alumni networks.
With support from ASJA and ASCOJA, JAOL successfully hosted a symposium of special significance, embracing sustainable future livelihoods while commemorating the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Laos and Japan, underscoring JAOL’s role as a bridge between the two nations and celebrating decades of friendship and cooperation.
The event concluded with a Gala Dinner, offering opportunities for alumni, experts, and partners to network, share experiences, and strengthen ASEAN–Japan ties.
This year’s symposium marked another milestone in JAOL’s journey, highlighting its contribution to ASEAN–Japan cooperation and reinforcing the collective commitment of alumni networks to promote food security, resilience, and innovation for a sustainable future.

By Advertorial Desk
(Latest Update September 15, 2025)