A panel discussion on “Achieving sustainable agro-food systems through measures to combat climate change and promote the inter-governance of the Water-Energy-Food-Ecosystem (WEFE)” was held within the framework of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29).

The event, which took place at the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO) pavilion in the Blue Zone, discussed strategies for achieving sustainable agro-food systems, best practices, policy frameworks and technological innovations that support the sustainable and sound management of water, energy and food resources in the context of the climate crisis. The panel discussion was moderated by Fahman Fathurrahman, ICESCO’s expert on the Science and Environment sector.

Speaking at the event, Deputy Minister of Agriculture Ilhama Gadimova said that climate change is causing problems related to ensuring food security, water access and energy use. This necessitates discussing solutions to create sustainability in agri-food systems, and solving these problems requires innovative, integrated approaches that balance the urgent needs of farmers and communities.

The Deputy Minister noted that comprehensive state programs and financial support instruments are being implemented in Azerbaijan to facilitate the transition to sustainable agriculture. The country's efficient use of water and land resources and protection of biodiversity form the basis of climate adaptation strategies, and climate-smart agricultural practices that increase efficiency and sustainability are prioritized. Irrigation systems are being modernized by applying drip and sprinkler technologies. Subsidies and low-interest loans are being provided for farmers to master water-efficient methods. Such investments, in addition to increasing productivity, ensure sustainable use of water and land for future generations.

Speaking at the panel discussions, Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research of Pakistan, Grammenos Mastrogeni, Deputy Secretary-General of the Union for the Mediterranean (UfM), Tarifa Al Zaabi, Secretary-General of the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA), Virginia Gillett, Specialist in the Land Management and Water Division of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Issa Faye, Director General for Global Practices and Partnerships of the Islamic Development Bank, and Akinyemi Akinyuga, Technical Advisor on Green Economy and Environmental Issues of the Ekiti State Government of Nigeria, shared their views on preventing food losses and ensuring food security, global climate change and biodiversity, strengthening climate resilience, protecting the ecosystem, applying digital technologies in agriculture, developing innovative processes in the agricultural sector, forming a sustainable supply chain, as well as increasing the role of women in these areas.