Doha: The State of Qatar participated in the 34th Meeting of Their Excellencies the GCC Undersecretaries Responsible for Agriculture and Food Security, held virtually on Tuesday, to discuss collaborative efforts in agriculture and food security among member states. The Qatari delegation was led by HE Undersecretary of the Ministry of Municipality, Ali bin Mohammed Al Ali.
According to Qatar News Agency, Al Ali emphasized Qatar's dedication to joint Gulf action and cooperation in agriculture and food security to ensure sustained food supplies and improve the GCC's readiness to tackle challenges and global changes. He highlighted the significance of implementing the Gulf Food Security Strategy, which promotes shared programs and initiatives, and assured Qatar's commitment to fulfilling its responsibilities in this regard.
Al Ali praised initiatives to establish Gulf strategic stockpiles for food and essential supplies, underscoring their role in developing a robust stockpiling system and ensuring continuity during crises. He also mentioned Qatar's national efforts to enhance food security through domestic production, strategic stockpiling, agricultural technologies, and partnerships with the private sector.
He recognized the importance of digital solutions and AI technologies in developing early warning systems to monitor risks and respond promptly, contributing to a resilient food system. Al Ali concluded by thanking the GCC General Secretariat, the Kingdom of Bahrain, and other involved parties, expressing hope that the meeting would yield outcomes that bolster food security and agriculture while fostering Gulf cooperation.
The meeting addressed several key topics, including the food security strategy, the use of AI in farm management, standardizing procedures for medicines and vaccines, cooperation in aquatic and genetic resources, and the establishment of Gulf strategic stockpiles.