Exhibition highlights the interconnected nature of our agrifood systems

Held at FAO headquarters from 30 September to 4 October 2024, the exhibition suggests that taking a holistic approach can help overcome global agricultural challenges. The exhibition showcases the technical work and knowledge products of FAO. Visitors can immerse themselves in a 360-degree video experience that explores the complex relationships between climate change; crops; innovation and technologies; land, water and biodiversity; livestock; and people.

Plant production systems remain at the forefront of the COAG agenda this year, with discussions on innovative practices to boost crop yields while safeguarding ecosystems, integrated pest management and the role of cutting-edge technologies. A particular focus is the need for global collaboration on plant health within the One Health approach. 

“To produce more with less, FAO promotes optimizing the positive aspects of crop production systems while minimizing the negative,” said Yurdi Yasmi, Special Coordinator of the FAO Plant Production and Protection Division. 

Participants attending an interactive talk. ©FAO/MH Kawsar Rudro

Delegates, visitors and staff can also attend Speaker’s Corner, where a series of interactive talks will be hosted throughout the week. These short sessions will delve into topics such as pesticide management, nutrition, agricultural policies and practical applications of bioeconomy. This will allow visitors to engage directly with experts and specialists, creating a lively forum for exchanging ideas and learning.

On display this week are special agricultural products from the different countries involved in the FAO One Country One Priority Product (OCOP) initiative. Yasmi added, “OCOP supports countries in promoting their unique and culturally significant agricultural products through sustainable practices, enhancing value chains, and facilitating access to both regional and global markets.” The governments of Egypt and Jordan have provided fresh dates and date-based products for visitors to taste and experience firsthand the special agricultural products they are promoting within the OCOP initiative. 

The 29th session of COAG, which officially opened today in Rome, has brought together Member Nations and key stakeholders from around the world to discuss pressing issues related to global agriculture, food systems and rural development. This year's session falls at a critical moment with the agriculture sector facing challenges posed by climate change, biodiversity loss, conflict and the ongoing need to ensure food security for a growing global population.

Display of special agricultural products supported by One Country One Priority Product initiative. ©FAO/Mia Rowan

More on this topic

• Events | Plant Production and Protection | Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (fao.org)
• Home | Committee on Agriculture (COAG) | Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (fao.org)
• Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations - Webcast (fao.org)
• One Country One Priority Product (OCOP)
• Overview of the 29th Session of COAG - Julie Emond, COAG Chairperson

Committee On Agriculture (COAG)