The transformation of food systems is a key condition for achieving the goals of the Paris Agreement, stated Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, the UAE’s Minister of Climate Change and Environment, at the Food, Agriculture, and Water Day, organized as part of COP29 Report informs.
The minister noted that the Declaration on Sustainable Agriculture, Food Systems and Climate Action adopted during COP28 has already been endorsed by 160 countries. "This declaration is of crucial importance in terms of adapting food systems to climate challenges and uniting global efforts," she emphasized.
Al Dahak highlighted the significant progress made by the Aim for Climate initiative, launched at COP26 in 2021. She added that the initiative has seen a remarkable increase in participation, with the number of partner organizations rising from 79 to 800 and the number of participating countries growing from 31 to 56.
According to her, the initiative has attracted a total investment of $29.2 billion. "This initiative supports the development of climate-smart agricultural solutions and fosters innovation," the minister added.
The UAE's National Food Security Strategy 2051 was also discussed, with the minister outlining the measures being implemented to enhance local food production and increase productivity through the adoption of climate-resilient agricultural technologies.
Additionally, the recently launched UAE Plan: Emirates Program includes initiatives aimed at developing agricultural technologies, expanding green areas, and strengthening food security.
During her speech, Amna Al Dahak also talked about the National Agricultural Center established within the program framework. She stated that this center will facilitate the transition to climate-appropriate agriculture by providing technical support to farmers.
Minister Al Dahak expressed support for Azerbaijan's Harmoniya Initiative, put forward as part of its COP29 Presidency. She emphasized that this initiative further highlights the importance of global food system transformation.
"The UAE will continue to lead the fight against climate change through innovation and collaboration," the minister concluded.