Panel discussion on "From Global Goals to local action: regional initiatives to strengthen agri-food systems" was held

A joint statement "On the establishment of the forum of climate-resistant villages" was signed.

Within the framework of the international climate conference hosted by Azerbaijan, the discussion of climate change and measures to combat it, the creation of a climate-resistant agricultural system continues. Within the framework of COP29, a panel discussion on “From Global Goals to Local Action: regional initiatives to strengthen agri-food systems”was held in the “Blue Zone” this time.

Speaking at the event, Minister of Agriculture Majnun Mammadov said that some of the various initiatives put forward so far in connection with climate change and measures to combat have been adapted to regional interests and policies. Steps should be taken to create and strengthen intergovernmental mechanisms for coordinated action to combat climate change. Noting that the loss of biodiversity, climate change, land degradation and water shortages have a negative impact on the agro-food systems of the member countries of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), as well as all over the world, the Minister said that the creation of a forum on climate-resistant villages will be announced within the framework of this event. This initiative will have a positive impact on the rural development policy of our countries and facilitate the well-being of the rural population.

Recalling that major reconstruction and restoration work was carried out in the liberated territories of Azerbaijan, the Minister noted that the concept of smart city and smart village was used for the development of rural areas in these areas and called on enterprises of all partner states to invest in the economic regions of Karabakh and East Zangazur.

Deputy Secretary General of OTS Sadi Jafarov informed the participants of the event about the economic, agrarian potential, investment opportunities, implemented reforms and the existing transport and logistics infrastructure of the member countries of the organization. The OTS official noted that agriculture is one of the important sectors of the economy, necessary measures are taken to ensure food security, it is necessary to expand cooperation in order to reduce the effects of climate change and develop mutual trade relations.

Deputy Minister of Water, Agriculture and Processing Industry of Kyrgyzstan Mirbek Duysheev noted that his country is suffering from drought, and the negative effects of climate change on the agricultural sector are increasing. He stressed that they support initiatives aimed at further strengthening climate activity and the importance of expanding cooperation in this direction.

Within the framework of the event, a joint statement “On the creation of a forum of climate-resistant villages” was signed. The document provides for regular exchange of experience on rural development, smart rural initiatives, sharing best practices on sustainable and climate-sustainable rural projects, climate adaptation, assessing the challenges facing regions and strengthening opportunities for agricultural communities to become more climate-sustainable, and developing strategies for climate-smart agriculture, sustainable land management, water conservation, renewable energy adoption, disaster risk reduction.

Speaking at the Panel discussion, local and foreign experts shared their views on the establishment of climate-resistant agro-food systems, the transformation of the agro-food system, global climate activity. At the end of the event, participants' questions were answered and views were exchanged on measures to combat climate change.