Agriculture Minister Amjad Badr on Wednesday called for greater adoption of global best practices in sustainable agriculture to confront the growing threat of climate change, stressing the need for smarter water use and improved food production systems across the Arab region.
Speaking at the third joint ministerial meeting of Arab Ministers of Agriculture and Water, held as part of the 8th Cairo Water Week, Minister Badr noted that the diversity of natural resources across the Arab region provides a strong incentive to adopt integrated strategies for optimal investment.
He urged countries to build on their unique strengths to achieve Arab agricultural and food integration, with the goal of producing a surplus that can enhance the region’s role in global trade and competitiveness.
Badr underlined the need to strengthen research collaboration and knowledge-sharing among countries in areas such as irrigation management, modern farming systems, and innovative solutions to environmental and climate-related challenges. These efforts, he said, are essential to achieving water and food security.
The minister also highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the goals of sustainable agricultural development, especially in light of challenges posed by climate change.
He called for the expanded use of advanced technologies in agricultural production and stressed the role of the private sector in increasing investment and fostering stronger cooperation between agriculture and water-related institutions to ensure effective management of natural resources.
Badr praised the contributions of Arab and international organizations-particularly the Arab Organization for Agricultural Development and the Arab Center for the Studies of Arid Zones and Dry Lands (ACSAD)-for their field and research efforts in advancing water and resource use efficiency and achieving meaningful results.
The 8th edition of Cairo Water Week continues through Thursday, October 16, bringing together public and private sector leaders, scientists, and policymakers to foster cooperation in agriculture, water, and irrigation.
The event also serves as a platform for building partnerships with UN agencies, the European Union, civil society organizations, and government institutions.
