Global FAO Conference Kicks Off in Cairo with Arab and International Participation

Egypt launched the third global conference for UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) representatives in Cairo's New Administrative Capital today. The gathering brings together Arab and international delegates to tackle food security challenges and strengthen global cooperation under the theme "Hand in Hand for Better Food and Future."

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly attended the opening session on behalf of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, alongside Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit and FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu. Representatives from the organization's regional and country offices also participated in the talks.

The conference unveiled a new initiative called "Villages for Preserving Agricultural and Food Heritage" under the MuNe umbrella. Officials screened a documentary explaining how the program aims to protect agricultural traditions while supporting rural communities.

Madbouly emphasized Egypt's commitment to working with FAO to build more flexible food systems. He stressed that global food security requires joint international action and highlighted the need to boost agricultural production while improving resilience against climate change impacts.

Aboul Gheit painted a stark picture of the Arab region's food challenges. He noted that the area faces a massive food gap driven by conflicts and drought conditions. Water scarcity affects 19 Arab countries, with 13 experiencing absolute water shortage. More than 55 million people across the region suffer from malnutrition, he said.

The conference comes at a critical time as food insecurity spreads globally. Climate change, regional conflicts, and supply chain disruptions have made food access increasingly difficult for vulnerable populations. The FAO's "Hand in Hand" initiative focuses on helping countries develop sustainable agricultural systems and reduce rural poverty.

For Egypt, hosting this conference reinforces its position as a key player in regional food security discussions. The country has been working to expand its agricultural sector and reduce dependence on food imports, particularly wheat and other staples.