UAE stresses navigation freedom, supply chains for food security

UAE chairs FAO Regional Conference in Rome

As Chair of the 38th session of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Regional Conference for the Near East and North Africa in Rome, the UAE underscored the importance of moving beyond crisis response toward long-term transformation.

Call for innovation and climate financing

In her opening remarks, Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment, highlighted the UAE’s experience in turning challenges such as water scarcity and limited arable land into drivers of innovation. She called for increased climate financing and greater emphasis on equity to support vulnerable communities.

COP28 framework and nature-based solutions

Al Dahak noted that the outcomes of the COP28 UAE Declaration on sustainable agriculture and resilient food systems provide a practical framework for regional action. She emphasised that nature-based solutions can deliver both environmental and economic benefits, while warning of the risks posed by land degradation and underinvestment in food security.

Impact of geopolitical tensions on supply chains

Discussions during the conference highlighted the effects of geopolitical tensions and climate change on food systems, particularly disruptions to global supply chains. Instability in key maritime routes, especially the Strait of Hormuz, was identified as a major factor driving up costs for agricultural inputs and affecting global food supplies.

Ensuring freedom of navigation and trade stability

Mohammed Saeed Al Nuaimi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, stressed that ensuring freedom of navigation and maintaining smooth global trade flows are essential for securing agricultural inputs and safeguarding food security. He noted that the UAE’s strong logistics infrastructure and international partnerships have helped maintain stable supply chains.

Strengthening agriculture through investment and reform

Al Nuaimi highlighted the UAE’s commitment to strengthening the agricultural sector through institutional reforms, infrastructure investments, and support for innovation, including funding for agricultural technology projects and sustainable development initiatives.

Enhancing cooperation and early warning systems

He also called for stronger international cooperation, including the development of early warning systems to monitor food, energy, and fertiliser markets, helping countries anticipate and mitigate future disruptions.

Role of youth and innovation in agriculture

The UAE delegation emphasised the importance of empowering youth and investing in agricultural technology, encouraging young people to play an active role in shaping the future of sustainable food systems.

Regional roadmap for resilient food systems

The conference concluded with a regional consensus to develop a comprehensive roadmap under the UAE’s presidency, aimed at aligning policies, strengthening cooperation, and protecting critical trade routes. Participants committed to advancing climate-smart agriculture and building resilient, inclusive food systems for the future.