FAO participates in the first international forum and exhibition for sustainable agriculture in Saudi Arabia

November 20-22, 2023 : Under the auspices of His Excellency Eng. Abdulrahman Al-fadhli, Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA), the first international forum for sustainable agriculture, was launched in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, under the theme “Agricultural development and optimal use of natural resources”. The forum aims to discuss and address challenges, explore new innovative solutions for a more sustainable future in agriculture, and draw global attention to the most recent technological advances in the agriculture sector. The forum will bring together experts from the industry, policymakers, thought leaders, and participants worldwide. This diversified gathering offers a one-of-a-kind platform for collaboration and fostering global partnerships in sustainable agriculture.

The forum is organized by the National Center for Research and Development of Sustainable Agriculture (Estidamah) and with the participation of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), other organizations, and more than 50 researchers from 25 countries for discussing the latest research and developments, in several topics, including climate-smart agriculture, precision agriculture, Integrated Pest Management (IPM), marketing, and sustainable food value chains and investment in sustainable agriculture.

During his participation in the forum, Mr. Thaer Yaseen, Regional Plant Protection Officer at the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations Office in the Near East and North Africa, stated that the agricultural sector is the common thread that holds the 17 SDGs together more than any other sectors and that can turn the world’s challenges into opportunities and can play an essential role in addressing the hunger, poverty, and world food security issues. Also, we need innovative tools and approaches across the whole Agri-Value Chain that make our agriculture more sustainable.

He also stressed that the NENA region faces many threats caused by pests and diseases, exacerbated by weak surveillance systems, poor national phytosanitary regulations, emergency response, early detection, and the absence of regional cooperation and coordination.

Mr. Yaseen also stated that the IPM for Sustainable Agriculture is a knowledge-based approach that requires a holistic view and strong collaboration among all the stakeholders. It needs all partners (governments, farmers, scientists, civil society, extension services, farmers' associations, and the private sector) for designing, financing, and implementing the IPM programs.

It is worth noting that Mr. Yasseen was honored by His Excellency Eng. Abdulrahman Al-fadhli, Minister of Environment, Water, and Agriculture (MEWA) during the event. The forum features lectures, seminars, discussions, presentations, and workshops led by international specialists on the most recent practices, research, and studies in sustainable agriculture. It provides a venue for national and international businesses to display and exchange their most recent ideas and experiences in sustainable agriculture.