Cyprus supports Global Forum for Food and Agriculture findings, says Minister

Minister of Agriculture, Rural Development, and Environment, Dr. Maria Panayiotou has expressed Cyprus's support for the joint communiqué issued by the 17th Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) held in Berlin.

The conference was held by the Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture of Germany, as part of the "Green Week."

According to a Ministry announcement, in her intervention at the conference titled "Farming a Sustainable Bioeconomy," the Minister said that the Joint Declaration aligns with our priorities and aspirations.

We believe, said Panayiotou, that the bio-economy can provide the necessary transformation to address global challenges such as climate change, food security, and the sustainable management of available resources.

By adopting the principles of the circular economy and innovative approaches, we can strengthen rural communities, support economic resilience, and promote environmental sustainability, she added.

Highlighting the enormous potential of the bio-economy as a driving force for inclusive and sustainable development, the Minister emphasised, however, that this potential can only be realized through the sustainable production of biomass, supported by healthy soils, adequate water supply, as well as efficient practices and balanced land use.

Equally critical, said the Minister, is the need to ensure inclusivity and fair access to opportunities, especially for small farms, women, and youth, as well as vulnerable groups, so that we ensure that no one is left behind in this transition.

In these critical times, she added, it is important to work together with a spirit of cooperation, ensuring that agricultural systems are resilient, inclusive, and capable of meeting the nutritional needs of a growing global population.

She further emphasised that Cyprus remains committed to promoting bio-economy practices and fostering international and regional cooperation to address common challenges. Together, we can unlock the full potential of the bio-economy, creating a sustainable, equitable, and resilient future for all, Panayiotou said.

Moreover, in a discussion titled "Creating a Fair Framework – Harnessing Change," Dr. Panayiotou highlighted the necessity of collaboration in addressing common challenges and the fair and sustainable development of rural areas.

(Source: CNA)