From December 4 to 8, the Principality was an observer during the 174th session of the Council of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) held in Rome,

Echoing the debates taking place at the same time in Dubai at COP 28, Mr QU Dongyu, Director-General of FAO, clarified that the transformation of agri-food systems has a central place in the solutions to contribute in the fight against climate change.

Member States discussed the crucial issues facing the multiplication of crises and global conflicts and also established the budgetary priorities for the period 2024- 2025.

In an approach that aims to be innovative, the FAO Council notably approved the creation of a “Youth and Women’s Office”, a first within the Nations System United, thereby recognising their essential role in the sustainable transformation of agri-food systems.

This 174th session was marked by the adoption of a decision relating to the situation in Gaza, calling for a prolonged humanitarian truce leading to a cessation of hostilities in the dramatic humanitarian context in this area.

Emphasising the need to urgently provide the civilian population full, safe and unhindered access to essential goods and services, the decision provides specific guidance to FAO on measures to mitigate consequences of the conflict on food security in the region.

Following on from previous sessions, the Council also adopted a decision on the impact of the war in Ukraine, notably reiterating its call for an immediate cessation of attacks on essential agricultural and energy infrastructure in this country.

The Principality has also associated itself with several declarations made on behalf of the members of the European Union on issues relating to the world food and nutrition situation, agriculture and related problems, current and future activities of the Organisation as well as on the work of the various FAO committees.

The FAO Council, composed of 49 rotating members, acts as the executive body of the Organisation.

ORIGINAL SOURCE & PHOTO: Monaco Government Press Service