Damascus, Oct. 13 (SANA) Ways to strengthen cooperation in rural development projects and agricultural extension were discussed Tuesday during a bilateral meeting between the Ministry of Agriculture and a delegation from the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
Ahmad Jalal al-Ahmad, Eastern Region Representative for the Ministry of Agriculture and Director of Agricultural Affairs and Plant Protection, met with IFAD officials to examine several proposed joint initiatives.
According to the ministry statement, discussions covered national plans to combat invasive species—specifically water hyacinth and silverleaf nightshade—alongside efforts to transition toward modern irrigation systems to conserve water resources and improve crop yields.
The two sides addressed economic challenges facing rural women, emphasizing targeted support programs to boost their participation in agricultural production and improve household livelihoods.
Hawazan al-Meqdad, Director of Guidance and Rural Development, presented an overview of institutional priorities focused on expanding income-generating opportunities for farming communities. The meeting follows technical talks held Sunday regarding the design of IFAD‘s Agricultural Livelihoods and Water Security Program.
Kh.A / Mzn
