International Conference “Cooperation to Ensure Food Security in the Context of Climate Change” Held in Ashgabat

On November 28, 2024, the International Conference "Cooperation to Ensure Food Security in the Context of Climate Change" was held at the Yildiz Hotel in Ashgabat.

The forum, held in a hybrid format, was attended by heads of relevant ministries and departments of Turkmenistan, representatives of international organizations and financial institutions, experts, and media representatives.

The main goal of the conference is to coordinate regional and global cooperation to ensure food security in the context of climate change.

In their speeches, the conference participants outlined the possibilities for strengthening multifaceted cooperation to ensure food security in the context of climate change. In this regard, the need to strengthen international cooperation was emphasized.

First, the floor was given to Viorel Gutu, Deputy Director-General, Regional Representative for Europe and Central Asia of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

The effectiveness of cooperation between FAO and Turkmenistan was emphasized. The priority tasks facing the food supply system are highlighted, namely, preserving biodiversity, improving the melioration state of land, and rational use of water resources.

FAO promotes such a modern solution as digitalization of agriculture based on advanced technologies. All this contributes to monitoring the condition of crops and soil, reducing costs and increasing yields.

During the conference, Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency Rafael Grossi spoke via digital communication. Noting that he was glad to take part in this important event, the head of the IAEA spoke about the Agency's work in combating climate change, ensuring food security and emphasized the relevance of developing cooperation in this area.

It was noted that Turkmenistan is consistently developing cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency. As a member of the Organization, Turkmenistan takes an active part in the implementation of its regional and national projects in the field of climate change and food security.

The international conference included the following sections: “Joint approaches to improving food security and sustainability of food systems in the context of climate change”, “Using climate finance for sustainable food and agricultural systems”, “Translating commitments into actions: sharing experiences and further steps to ensure resilience to climate change and food security”.

It was especially emphasized that under the leadership of President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, the country's agricultural sector is consistently developing, its export potential is being strengthened, and great importance is attached to the introduction of modern technologies and scientific achievements. In this regard, cooperation with specialized international organizations plays an important role.

A document was signed between the Government of Turkmenistan and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations during the conference.

Having emphasized the importance of this international conference, its participants expressed their sincere gratitude to the Turkmen side for the high level of organization of the meeting and hospitality.