FAO's Role in the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025: A Step Towards Sustainable Food Security
The First Edition of Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025 marked a significant event, with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) playing a pivotal role. Held in Al Ain, Abu Dhabi, this conference aimed to strengthen the United Arab Emirates' agricultural sector while promoting sustainable food security within the region. Let's delve into the highlights of this landmark event and the key contributions made by FAO.
FAO's Participation and Collaborative Efforts
The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025 saw FAO, under the aegis of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, take center stage among international organizations on its opening day. The conference was hosted at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre in Al Ain from May 28 to 31, 2025. FAO's participation underscored its ongoing partnership with the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and its dedication to supporting the nation's agricultural development agenda through innovative solutions aligned with global sustainability goals.
Dr. Abdulhakim Elwaer, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for the Near East and North Africa, articulated this commitment, expressing pride in supporting the Emirates Agriculture Conference as a catalyst for innovation, sustainability, and inclusion in agriculture. FAO's engagement demonstrated its pledge to transforming agri-food systems, empowering farmers—particularly youth and women—as vital agents of change, thus reinforcing the UAE's commitment to advancing food security in the region.
Engaging Dialogues: International Organizations and Sustainable Food Security
During the conference's opening sessions, FAO contributed to a dialogue session entitled "The Role of International Organizations in Advancing a Sustainable Food Security Ecosystem." Key topics focused on enhancing agricultural resilience and sustainability within the region. Mr. Waleed AbouelHassan, FAO's Senior Water Resources Officer, joined experts from the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture and the Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research, discussing international cooperation in fortifying the region's agricultural policy.
Moderated by His Excellency Dr. Mohammed Salman Al Hammadi, Assistant Undersecretary for the Food Diversity Sector at the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, the discussion revolved around fostering partnerships between international and local entities as a means to tackle global food security challenges. As Dr. Al Hammadi noted, such collaboration is crucial for advancing innovation and sustainability within the UAE's agricultural sector, catalyzing a more self-sufficient food system.
Showcasing Knowledge and Innovations: FAO's Exhibition Booth
FAO's influence extended beyond discussions, as they maintained an impactful presence with their dedicated booth at the exhibition. Here, government officials, researchers, farmers, and students explored FAO's contributions, focusing on sustainable farming practices, water efficiency, climate resilience, and efforts to reduce food loss and waste.
In celebration of FAO's 80th anniversary, a special section at the booth highlighted FAO's global impact since 1945. Visitors engaged with interactive displays and a commemorative video, tracing eight decades of FAO's vigorous efforts to eradicate hunger and build sustainable food systems. This reflective journey emphasized FAO's long-standing commitment to global food security.
Recognition and Continued Partnership
Acknowledging FAO's contributions, Her Excellency Dr. Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment, presented FAO with a token of appreciation. As a Platinum Sponsor, FAO's presence and pivotal role in advancing sustainable agricultural practices were celebrated, reinforcing the enduring partnership between FAO and the UAE.
Empowering Innovation and Local Production
FAO's involvement in the conference reinforced broader goals of fostering public-private cooperation, empowering women and youth, and driving investment in local production. Envisioning a sustainable future, the exhibition featured a farmers' market, showcased advanced agricultural solutions like vertical farming, sustainable irrigation systems, and digital technologies.
Workshop Participation and Future Vision
The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025 brought together over 75 speakers, including government officials, experts, and industry leaders. A myriad of workshops and outreach activities aligned with the UAE's vision to promote innovative agricultural techniques and partnerships contributing to food security and economic diversification.
FAO remains steadfastly committed to working with the UAE and the region to ensure agricultural development and climate-smart solutions for a sustainable and resilient future. The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025 was a triumphant step towards achieving these regional goals.
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