Page 65 - web
P. 65

Organizers                                                                                                             ISSUE No. 447

sustainable development in Arab countries. He affirmed       simultaneously building the necessary capacity to tackle
that food security stands as a priority for decision-makers  forthcoming environmental challenges.
in Arab countries, considering it a fundamental pillar for
achieving national security. This is particularly crucial      In her speech, Nada Al-Ajizi, Minister Plenipotentiary
given the geographical characteristics of Arab countries,    and Director of the Department of Sustainable
which face challenges such as the spread of diseases and     Development and International Cooperation at the
epidemics, climate change, increasing                        League of Arab States, emphasized the importance
water crises, scarcity of agricultural
lands, growing food demand, and food                         50               5
waste.
                                                             participants  from countries
  Mr. Alharfash also highlighted the
impact of international emergencies,                              13
such as the COVID-19 crisis and regional/
international wars, which intensify                          presented by experts
the threats arising from this strategic
national issue. These challenges facing                           12
Arab food security impose new burdens
on Arab countries, necessitating the                            from organizations
development of scientific and practical
solutions to address the overall factors
contributing to their increase.

  Mr. Alharfash highlighted that
food security is one of the foremost
concerns of NAUSS, a body that is
entrusted with implementing Arab
security strategies and plans. This aligns with NAUSS›s
commitment to the concept of comprehensive security.
Through its scientific and research programs, NAUSS
aims to bolster the institutional capacities of the Arab
food security system. This involves expediting strategic
agricultural and water planning, seeking innovative
solutions for Arab decision-makers, establishing a shared
agricultural database, and promoting Arab participation
in international initiatives related to food security.

  To accomplish these objectives, it is imperative to
foster regional cooperation to mitigate the potential
impacts of commodity price fluctuations, enhance
the management systems of water resources, and
improve their overall efficiency. Furthermore, it entails
strengthening adaptable strategies to effectively
address risks associated with food supply chains, while

                                                                           65
   60   61   62   63   64   65   66   67   68   69   70