Minister of Agriculture Dr. Nizar Hani participated in the proceedings of an agricultural conference organized by the Turkish Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, under the patronage and presence of the First Lady of the Republic of Turkey, Mrs. Emine Erdoğan.
The conference saw extensive participation from ministers, officials, experts, and representatives of international organizations from various countries worldwide.
An International Platform for Exchanging Expertise
The conference served as an international platform for exchanging expertise on sustainable natural resource management, waste reduction, and promoting the circular economy.
This also included supporting agricultural and environmental policies that contribute to achieving sustainable development goals, enhancing food security, and protecting ecosystems.
Minister of Agriculture Meets Turkish Counterpart
On the sidelines of the conference, Minister Hani held a meeting with the Turkish Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, Mr. İbrahim Yumaklı.
Lebanon’s Ambassador to Turkey, Mr. Mounir Anouti, and the Advisor to the Minister of Agriculture, Mrs. Sawsan Abu Fakher El Din, were also present.
At the outset of the meeting, Minister Hani expressed his gratitude and appreciation to the Republic of Turkey for its continuous support to Lebanon.
Losses Incurred by Lebanese Farmers
Minister Hani also reviewed the extent of losses incurred by Lebanese farmers, particularly in the most affected areas, highlighting the urgent need to enhance the agricultural sector’s capacity for recovery and resilience.
In this context, he requested in-kind support including agricultural fertilizers, feed, modern irrigation systems, and agricultural equipment and machinery.
This support aims to assist farmers, ensure the sustainability of agricultural production, and improve food security.
The meeting also addressed prospects for developing agricultural cooperation between Lebanon and Turkey, leading to an agreement to initiate the preparation of a bilateral agricultural cooperation agreement covering a range of areas of mutual interest.
Foremost among these areas are forest protection and sustainable management, forest fire prevention, and leveraging advanced Turkish expertise in this field.
Additionally, cooperation in the fisheries sector, marine aquaculture, and the development of fish farming projects will be enhanced.
Both sides emphasized the importance of strengthening agricultural partnership between the two countries and expanding areas of technical and scientific cooperation, as well as exchanging expertise and modern technologies.
Minister Hani’s participation in this international forum comes within the framework of the Lebanese Ministry of Agriculture’s efforts to enhance regional and international cooperation.
This also includes attracting the necessary support and partnerships to advance the Lebanese agricultural sector.
