The European Union (EU) and the United States (US) have announced a 'collaboration platform on agriculture' designed to tackle climate change and sustainability challenges.

EU Commissioner for Agriculture, Janusz Wojciechowski and US Secretary of Agriculture, Secretary Tom Vilsack issued a joint statement on the partnership this morning (Wednesday, November 3), described as a new chapter in EU-US collaboration.

The commissioner and secretary said that international collaboration to confront climate change and foster sustainability is paramount to mitigating the "harsh and difficult future that awaits us as a global society".

"Climate change is already affecting the livelihoods of our farmers in deep and profound ways, from extreme weather volatility, to severe drought, to flooding, to wildfires and other catastrophic events that threaten our towns, cities and communities. We must rise to the challenge.

The joint statement also recognised the role of science and innovation in bringing about more sustainable agriculture.

"This includes fair and open markets at the local, regional, and international levels that bolster food security and sustainable food systems.”

The statement continued:

"This transformational initiative provides a platform for us to work cooperatively towards these goals.”