48th Special Session of the Committee on World Food Security (CFS)

48^th Special Session of the Committee on World Food Security (CFS)

Statement by

Dr. QU Dongyu, FAO Director-General

4 June 2021

 

Distinguished Delegates,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

1.              I am pleased to address you at this Special Session, which will consider the draft Policy Recommendations on Agroecological and Other Innovative Approaches.

2.              The timing of this CFS policy document is very opportune, given the global COVID-19 pandemic, which has exposed the risks, fragilities and inequalities characterizing our current agri-food systems. 

3.              The pandemic has also highlighted the importance of resilience and diversification, and the need to integrate sustainability in its three dimensions - economic, social and environmental - throughout our agri-food systems.

4.              I commend the CFS and its High Level Panel of Experts on Food Security and Nutrition for this report and its policy recommendations.

5.              They build upon and complement other relevant instruments, including the CFS Voluntary Guidelines on Food Systems and Nutrition endorsed earlier this year. 

6.              These reports are also timely as they can contribute to the debate at the UN Food Systems Summit.

7.              Implementing these policy recommendations can contribute to FAO’s efforts in transforming agri-food systems, and for the progressive realization of the right to adequate food in the context of national food security.

8.              These efforts need to be complemented with the potential of innovation and digital technologies.

9.              FAO will work towards applying these recommendations and I encourage all CFS Members and stakeholders to do the same.

10.              It is time to work together in harmony and solidarity.

11.              A holistic redesign of the world's agri-food systems to make them MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable is crucial to ending hunger by 2030 and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

12.              We need to jointly address how agri-food systems can be transformed to:

• sustainably deliver the quality diets needed for good health;
• relieve pressure on the planet’s natural resources; and
• drive inclusive economic growth.

13.              The CFS can take full advantage of its inclusive structure and engage with all stakeholders in that respect.

14.              FAO is committed to a dynamic and impactful Committee on World Food Security that adds value and momentum to our efforts of transforming agri-food systems;

15.              for better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life, leaving no one behind.

16.              I wish you a productive Session.

17.              Thank you.