USAID and FAO agree on need for transparency and accountability

FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu and USAID Administrator Mark Green met today in talks that focused on cooperation between the two organizations.

Green said he looked forward to working closely with Qu, and said that USAID wants to see a strong, vibrant and accountable FAO succeed in its mission.

Qu said he fully agreed and outlined his vision for FAO, which is based on transparency, accountability and efficiency. He also underscored FAO’s policy of zero tolerance towards sexual harassment.

Qu described some of the steps he has taken since taking office in August aimed at improving staff morale and welfare, noting that the agency’s employees, who are characterized by diversity and multicultural backgrounds, are its greatest assets.

The FAO Director-General noted the agency’s long-standing relationship with USAID and expressed appreciation for the support received, not just financial but also in terms of policy.

Both parties agreed on the importance of tapping into youth as a resource for development in the agricultural sectors, especially in Africa.