Launch of the FAO-Spain Partnership Report “Working for global food and nutrition security”

Launch of the FAO-Spain Partnership Report
“Working for global food and nutrition security”

My dear friend Minister Planas Puchades,

Dear State Secretary for International Cooperation, Ms. Moreno Bau,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

1.          The report we are launching today conveys the spirit of our excellent collaboration.

2.          It shows how our joint efforts have translated into concrete results on the ground.

3.          This report is presented amid the striking development challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

4.          I am grateful for the generous funding from the Kingdom of Spain that contributes to mitigating the impacts of the pandemic in the medium and long term.

5.          The strategic alignment between our priorities is steadfast and is the foundation of our long‑standing partnership.

6.          It reflects our shared goals and historic commitment to eradicate global hunger and malnutrition.

7.          Honourable Minister Planas, I still remember our wonderful visit to Spain in December 2019 on the margins of COP25, where you generously welcomed us to your home.

8.          Our visit to the almazara (“oil press”) in Montoro, Córdoba, was an opportunity to see firsthand an emblematic sector of Spain’s agriculture.

9.          I am aware of the legacy that this special oil represents for Spain, and I was delighted to see how this valuable product is made.

10.          I also remember the visit to the facilities of the International Agrifood Campus of Excellence of the University of Córdoba, and the Olive Germplasm Bank.

11.          Spain can become a pioneer country in digital food and agriculture, setting the example in agri-food innovation.

12.          Recalling the dialogue we had with Córdoba’s students gives me confidence for the future of Spain’s agriculture.

13.          I would also like to highlight Spain’s support for the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS), for which FAO has designated four Spanish sites.

14.          I see great potential for these sites to be part of a strong global effort to revitalize rural areas.

15.          And I look forward to visiting these sites when conditions allow.

16.          I highly commend Spain’s determination to ensure that the fight against hunger and malnutrition remains high on the global political agenda,

17.          A commitment that has, over the years, reached the highest levels of leadership in the country.

18.          During my visit to Spain in 2019, I had the pleasure to meet with Her Majesty Queen Letizia – we are honored by her role as FAO’s Special Ambassador for Nutrition.

19.          Her Majesty was eager to know more about the Hand-in-Hand Initiative and the new Youth and Women Committees of FAO.

20.          In my meeting with Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, I was very pleased by his interest for Spain to continue being a vital ally in all our areas of work.

21.          We appreciate the trust that Spain puts in FAO and we are ready to scale up our joint efforts.

22.          To make agri-food systems MORE efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable, and

23.          For better production, better nutrition, a better environment, and a better life, leaving no one behind.

24.          Thank you.