Agriculture Ministry and FAO Discuss Enhancing Jordan’s Food System Resilience

Amman:A high-level meeting took place between Minister of Agriculture Dr. Saeb Khreisat and a delegation from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) to discuss strengthening cooperation between Jordan and the organization.

According to Jordan News Agency, the discussions aimed at supporting food system resilience, enhancing food security, and developing strategic partnerships in key agricultural and food sectors. The FAO delegation included Deputy Director-General Beth Bechdol, Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for the Near East and North Africa Dr. AbdulHakim Elwaer, and Rein Paulsen, Director of FAO’s Office of Emergencies and Resilience.

The meeting emphasized the importance of cooperation in agricultural sustainability, natural resource management, support for farming communities, and the development of production and marketing chains. These efforts are intended to provide safe and sustainable food while supporting growth and development in agricultural areas.

Both parties stressed the importance of continued coordination, cooperation, and the exchange of expertise. They discussed exploring opportunities for joint programs and projects to strengthen the agricultural sector’s role in enhancing food security and improving the resilience of food systems against future challenges.

Dr. Khreisat highlighted the strategic partnership between Jordan and FAO, describing it as a key pillar in supporting the Kingdom’s agricultural development and food security efforts. He called for ongoing cooperation and the leveraging of FAO’s technical assistance in relevant fields, emphasizing that enhancing food security requires developing food systems to be more resilient to challenges and emergencies.

He outlined a vision that includes supporting farmers and producers, improving agricultural productivity, and enhancing the efficiency of food value chains. These actions aim to achieve sustainable agricultural development and strengthen the resilience of agricultural communities. Khreisat commended FAO’s efforts in supporting Jordan and affirmed the ministry’s commitment to expanding cooperation with the organization, aligning with national priorities for the agricultural sector.