Cairo: Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouli emphasized Egypt's unwavering commitment to bolstering cooperation with the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) during the third annual conference of regional representatives. This event, hosted by Egypt, underscores the nation's dedication to supporting the FAO's vital role in enhancing global food security and aiding countries most in need in tackling humanitarian and economic challenges.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Madbouli delivered a speech on behalf of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi at the conference's opening in Egypt's new capital. He expressed appreciation for FAO Director General QU Dongyu's decision to hold this significant conference in Cairo, highlighting the ongoing support for strengthening collaboration between Egypt and the FAO.
Madbouli outlined Egypt's longstanding strategic partnership with the FAO, noting that Egypt was among the first nations to host a regional office outside the FAO's headquarters in 1947. This collaboration has led to numerous projects aimed at agricultural development, capacity-building, irrigation improvements, value chain upgrades, and enhanced early-warning and risk-management capabilities.
The prime minister emphasized that regional integration is crucial to addressing the escalating challenges faced by food systems, particularly due to climate change, economic pressures, and global supply chain disruptions. These factors have significantly impacted commodity prices and production inputs.
He remarked on the FAO's current slogan, "Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future," which highlights the importance of collective efforts to build resilience and ensure a secure food future for future generations. This aligns with Egypt's Vision 2030 and efforts to promote climate-smart agriculture, improve resource efficiency, empower rural women, and expand international partnerships.
Madbouli expressed Egypt's full support for the "Hand in Hand" initiative, launched by the FAO director general, which aims to support vulnerable sectors, enhance agricultural investment, increase productivity, and improve livelihoods.
In light of increasing humanitarian challenges, Madbouli stressed the necessity for UN agencies, including the FAO, to actively support countries and communities facing severe food supply chain disruptions, particularly in regions like Gaza and Sudan, where humanitarian crises are escalating.
In conclusion, the prime minister reiterated Egypt's commitment to strengthening cooperation with the FAO and advancing international efforts to build resilient and sustainable food systems, ultimately enhancing global food security. He expressed hope for productive discussions during the conference and for recommendations that will aid in achieving food security and improving the lives of small farmers worldwide.