G77 & China - Rome Chapter

176th Session of the FAO Council: G77 & China Joint Statement

05/12/2024

 

Mr. President,  

The Group of 77 and China recognizes and deeply values the essential work that FAO does to support Member States in building local capacities, according to national priorities, especially in the context of negotiations related to the 1992 Earth Summit. We also appreciate the technical assistance provided to countries so that they can meet their obligations under the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and in the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).  

This support becomes vital, especially for developing countries that often lack sufficient resources to face these challenges.  

We are pleased to highlight that in September 2025, the UNFCCC’s Standing Committee on Finance will take place at the FAO, focusing on accelerating climate action and promoting resilience through funding directed at food systems and agriculture. Let us remember that currently, agriculture receives only 3% of global financing, which is inadequate given its importance for food security.  We should also not forget that smallholders and family farmers are the most directly and severely affected by climate change.  Even though they are responsible for the majority of food production in developing countries, they only receive a fraction of 3% of global financing.

Furthermore, it is crucial to emphasize that despite the efforts made, the mobilization targets for funding in developing countries have not been met. FAO, as an accredited entity for climate finance funds and a facilitator of access to these resources, plays a vital role in this landscape. This is an opportune moment not only to highlight achievements but also to identify challenges faced by developing countries and search for innovative answers to overcome this situation; this reflection is essential to improve access to climate finance for agriculture and food systems that our nations require.  

Mr. President, we call for the global climate financing needs to be addressed.

In relation to the results of other fora, the G77 & China joins the call to ensure access to Science, Technology, and Innovation to tackle global challenges for sustainable development. The digital transformation of agri-food systems must be a driver for inclusive growth.  

Technology transfer is essential to improve the efficiency of agri-food systems in a context where climate change presents unprecedented challenges. We call for the acceleration of this process under favorable and accessible conditions for all. Real access to financing and technological innovations should be at the center of our discussions, as they are key to ensuring sustainable agriculture and healthy foods for everyone.  

With concrete actions aimed at the needs of developing countries, we can strengthen multilateralism and ensure the achievement of our global goals. It is imperative that the FAO continue to promote the connection between climate financing, technological innovation, and the food security as comprehensive strategies to address food security and nutrition and well-being in rural communities while mitigating climate change.  

Thank you.