On 16 and 17 October 2025, the Centre for Sustainable Agricultural Mechanization (CSAM) of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) participated in the Tongzhou Global Development Forum 2025, held in Beijing. Hosted by Renmin University of China and co-sponsored by the Tongzhou District People’s Government, the Forum brought together senior officials, international experts, academics, diplomats, and media representatives under the theme “Harmony and Cohesion: Foundations and Order for Global Development.” The discussions centered on strengthening trust, promoting a more inclusive international order, and fostering cooperation for shared prosperity.

A dedicated Sub-Forum on Global Food Security was convened to address growing pressures on food systems and build their resilience amid global challenges. The session emphasized that food insecurity is not merely a development concern but also a question of resilience, inclusion, and shared prosperity. Participants highlighted the vital role of cooperation, innovation, and inclusive approaches to strengthen agricultural systems and foster more sustainable and resilient food systems.

The sub-forum also featured expert presentations examining both structural and emerging trends shaping global and national food security.  Particular attention was given to demographic shifts, such as aging populations, rural-to-urban migration, and declining birth rates, which pose significant challenges to sustain agricultural productivity and ensuring stable food supplies. At the same time, these transformations offer opportunities to reimagine food systems with greater attention to food quality, efficiency, and technological innovation. Speakers underscored that leveraging advanced technologies, improving food system governance, and deepening international cooperation are key to building a more secure, adaptive, and high-quality food future.