Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Eng. Abdulrahman bin Abdulmohsen Al-Fadley has called for cooperation among G20 nations to strengthen their food systems for a better and more sustainable future.
Al-Fadley spoke at the G20 Agriculture Ministers’ meeting that took place in Hyderabad, India on June 16.17.
He said that in the aftermath of COVID-19, the food and agriculture production systems worldwide continue to face numerous challenges, at a time, when the demand for food for a growing population, is increasing rapidly.
"One crucial element in ensuring food security is strengthening rural communities by educating and empowering women and youth. Saudi Arabia in 2018, launched its flagship Sustainable Rural Development Program covering eight different areas. The program has proven remarkably to increase the income of our beekeepers by up to 50%, and a 10% increase in rain-fed small farmers," Al-Fadley added.
"We think that digitalization is emerging as a key catalyst to transform the agriculture sector by improving resource efficiency, enhancing performance, and boosting productivity. In this regard, Saudi Arabia launched a digital extension platform, which served more than 230,000 farmers and provided 2.9 million agricultural extension services," he added.
Al-Fadley stressed the need for realignment of all humanitarian programs to effectively address the most pressing food insecurity challenges. Saudi Arabia has demonstrated its commitment, by completing over 772 food security projects in 71 countries through the King Salman Humanitarian Aid & Relief Center, he said.
Al-Fadley called for joint work among G20 Agriculture Ministers within the framework of SDGs for realizing the Opportunities of the 21st Century for All, for our One Future.
