Today, Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Eng. Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Alfadley participated in a consultative workshop for Arab agriculture ministers held at the Arab League's General Secretariat headquarters in Cairo.
The workshop was chaired by Ahmed Aboul Gheit, the Secretary-General of the Arab League, and attended by several agriculture ministers from Arab countries.
"Alfadley emphasized the need for collaborative efforts and a unified approach among Arab nations to promote sustainable agriculture and achieve food security, especially given the present circumstances. He outlined three pathways to sustainable food security:
The initial pathway centers on achieving sustainable agricultural expansion by promoting innovation and capitalizing on comparative advantages. The second encompasses the enhancement of infrastructure and logistics, the improvement of sustainable supply chains, the formulation of policies and regulations for free trade, the stimulation of private sector involvement, and the augmentation of responsible investments in agriculture.
The third pathway is dedicated to pioneering solutions aimed at minimizing food wastage, effectively managing demand, and establishing circular agricultural food systems.
Alfadley highlighted a significant challenge in achieving food security in the Arab world.
According to the latest United Nations report, the number of undernourished individuals reached 54.3 million in 2021, marking a 55 percent increase since 2010. Additionally, over half of the Arab population cannot afford a healthy diet.
Despite these challenges, Alfadley stressed that the Arab world possesses valuable resources, capabilities, and relative advantages that provide optimism for the future. He emphasized the importance of unity and coordinated efforts to achieve food security in the region.
In conclusion, Minister Alfadley expressed Saudi Arabia's appreciation for the efforts of the Arab League's General Secretariat and member states. He called for a unified framework to develop sustainable agriculture and enhance Arab food security, emphasizing the importance of building flexible and secure food systems for the well-being of future generations.