Director-General hails colleagues with 25 years of service and welcomes new staff

13 January 2020, Rome – Director-General QU Dongyu today personally presented engraved silver medals to colleagues who have served the Organization for 25 years, thanking each for their dedication, determination, engagement and contribution.

 

Short biographical notes were read for each recipient, highlighting the wealth and diversity of experience at FAO headquarters and the agency’s network of regional and national offices.

 

Qu emphasized the importance of learning from each other, and pledged to ensure that such knowledge transfer happens.

The Director-General also held a welcome event for new staff members who joined FAO last year – 242 from 104 countries, including 11 being represented at FAO for the first time.

 

Acknowledging that he himself is a newcomer, Qu invited question and comments from those present and emphasized his commitment to a “new, dynamic and inclusive FAO” where new colleagues bring fresh ideas and approaches and experienced staff share their knowledge and lessons.

 

The motivation and dedication of FAO’s staff are greater than the big tasks facing the Organization, he said. “A world without poverty and hunger, where no one is left behind. This should be a reality, not just a slogan.”