Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority (ADAFSA) has signed two cooperation agreements with the United Nations (UN) specialized agency, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), to enhance sustainable development and biosecurity of the Emirate’s food and agriculture sectors.
The first cooperation agreement intends to reinforce sustainable development in the agricultural industry and develop a comprehensive plan for a sustainable agriculture sector in Abu Dhabi. The second one is aimed at establishing a robust biosecurity framework for the food and agriculture sectors.
Mariam Hareb Almheiri, Minister of State for Food Security said, “The two agreements provide a steppingstone for cultivating further cooperation between the FAO and the UAE in comprehensive agricultural planning and biosecurity, to ensure the sustainability of the national food security sector, utilizing the latest state-of-the-art technology.”
The minister highlighted the UAE’s plan on the development of its local food production, as part of the country’s efforts to fulfill its obligations toward the UN Sustainable Development Goal 2 – Zero Hunger, noting the 19 projects and initiatives the country working with the Sub-Regional Office of the FAO in the GCC States and Yemen.
Saeed Al Bahri Salem Al Ameri Director General – ADAFSA
“ADAFSA adopts advanced scientific methods to manage the agricultural sector in Abu Dhabi, and address the challenges facing the sector and ensure its stability. The long-term relationship with the FAO, noting that the signing of the agreements is a new step toward promoting mutual cooperation, to achieve the strategic goals of both sides.”
Dr. Dino Francescutti, Coordinator of the Sub-Regional Office of the FAO in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Yemen, confirmed the FAO’s commitment to providing technical support to reinforce the food production system of the UAE and the rest of the region, as well as to encourage innovation and technology, in line with the country’s pioneering regional role in this regard.
He further indicated that the agreement would help consolidate the UAE-FAO relationship and support efforts to foster sustainable growth, both locally and regionally.
