In recent decades, the world has faced problems such as rapidly increasing populations, poverty and environmental degradation. ISF delegates recognized solutions to the issues surrounding trade, environment and food safety are intricately connected to politics and social change. In particular, this year we have focused on “Understanding the Importance of International Trade in Relation to Food, Agriculture and Environment”. Participants from 19 universities in 19 countries and area have agreed upon the following statement, which we publicly announce:

• With the establishment of the WTO, the world trade of agricultural products has increased more than ever, hence the problems concerning conflicting trade conditions have risen. Under this context, in order to smooth the trade among countries it is necessary that each country (society) conduct trade while understanding each other’s economic, environmental and cultural situation to promote sustainable development. In order to acquire tangible benefits from international trade for both developed and developing countries, we must find a way to integrate local development with the ongoing globalization.
• Both developed and developing countries should create appropriate policies and strategies which are applicable and sensible between economic development and environmental protection. As students of agricultural related fields, we should be aware of natural resources “limitations”, have a strong sense of responsibility to find project-based alternatives and generate social solutions in order to improve productivity and promote sustainable agriculture.
• Food safety is a concern of every country worldwide. However, the corporate drive for profit has resulted in cases of lower standards and food contamination. Food and agricultural trade should be equally beneficial for both food providers and consumers and importer countries and exporter countries. To achieve this, reliable information regarding the safety of food products should be easily available for consumers. Food tracing and necessary certification systems at a national and international level should be encouraged, and education programs should educate consumers about the risk of food safety issues. We, members of the International Students Forum should take part in this task, and contribute to the development of a conscious society.
• We, the participants of the 5th International Students Summit agree to work actively on the establishment of the ISF in each country and areas. We believe that it is extremely important to set up a strong connection between ISF members every year. Therefore, the first step is certainly to advertise about ISF and prepare to constitute the ISF organization with adviser’s support. Students and educators as valuable citizens should continuing discussing and deepening their understanding on Food, Agriculture and Environment, disseminate their ideas to the society by sharing their experiences and knowledge in the ISF network. Education should be the core activity of ISF members, who should be the leaders in creating a sustainable world.
  

Lastly, these steps taken are merely a starting point to the success that we will reach in future; the next steps depend on every one of us to take up the challenge and move forward.

November 25, 2005
International Students Summit