Cairo: Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly addressed the opening session of the third Global Conference of Representatives of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in the New Administrative Capital, speaking on behalf of President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. He welcomed attendees to Egypt and emphasized the nation's commitment to supporting the FAO's efforts to enhance global food security and develop agricultural systems.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the Prime Minister expressed gratitude to Dr. Qu Dongyu, Director-General of the FAO, for choosing Cairo as the conference venue and for his continued support in fostering cooperation between Egypt and the FAO. Prime Minister Madbouly highlighted their productive meetings, which focused on advancing agri-food systems, promoting agricultural innovation, and supporting communities affected by crises.
Dr. Madbouly underscored Egypt's historical cooperation with the FAO, which began in 1947 and has led to numerous projects aimed at bolstering agricultural development, improving irrigation systems, and enhancing risk management capabilities. He also emphasized Egypt's role in supporting Arab and African food security by sharing expertise, providing training, and participating in regional priority setting.
The Prime Minister reiterated Egypt's belief in regional integration as a strategy to address challenges such as climate change, economic crises, and global supply chain disruptions. He noted that the meeting in Cairo reflects the 'One FAO' vision, which seeks to unify efforts among regional offices and ensure coordinated work with other UN agencies.
Dr. Madbouly highlighted the strategic importance of the global meetings, which facilitate experience sharing and challenge identification. The current meeting in Cairo builds on past successes to improve institutional performance and develop partnerships for sustainable food systems.
The Prime Minister mentioned this year's FAO slogan, 'Hand in Hand for better food and a better future,' aligning it with Egypt Vision 2030 and the nation's initiatives to promote climate-smart agriculture and empower rural communities. He reiterated Egypt's support for the FAO's 'Hand in Hand' initiative, which aims to strengthen fragile sectors and improve livelihoods.
Concluding his speech, Dr. Madbouly reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to cooperation with the FAO and supporting global efforts to develop sustainable food systems and achieve food security. He extended a warm welcome to conference participants and expressed hope for productive discussions and impactful recommendations.