In Rome, Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Anton Refalo met with Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Qu Dongyu ahead of the 44th session of the FAO Conference of Ministers of Agriculture.
During the meeting, the FAO Director-General commended Malta’s continued support for the work towards global food security. He acknowledged Malta’s proactive involvement in FAO initiatives and its contribution to global agricultural and food systems, particularly through the sharing of technical information and collaboration with Small Island Developing States (SIDS).
Minister Refalo gave an account of the agricultural, fishing and aquaculture industries in Malta.
With regard to agriculture, Malta’s unique methodologies related to water scarcity were discussed. Here, the Director General acknowledged Malta’s expertise in this area and stressed that this should serve as an example for other nations affected by similar environmental challenges.
The Minister also explained the characteristics of agriculture in Malta, particularly on the island of Gozo, focusing on the challenges and opportunities associated with the agricultural products of the small islands and welcomed the collaboration with the FAO in order to continue strengthening sustainable development in these areas.
During the meeting, Minister Refalo also referred to our country’s expertise in sustainable tuna production. He mentioned our country’s distinctive experience and technical proficiency in this field which is also strengthened by Malta’s strategic position in the Mediterranean.
The positive meeting ended with an agreement for further collaboration between Malta and the FAO, especially in the areas of innovation, sustainable fisheries and making the agricultural sector climate resilient.
Photo: MAFA
