After the opening session and the subsequent tree-planting ceremony, Minister Yumaklı spoke at the First Session of the Ministers’ Meeting. He emphasized that recent developments have shown that the responsibility for resilient and sustainable agriculture and food systems is more important than ever.

Emphasizing the strategic role of soil, water, and food in national and global policies, Minister Yumaklı drew attention to crises such as pandemics and military conflicts, threatening global food security. He remarked, “This demonstrates the close relationship between peace and security and the sustainability of agriculture. However, we cannot ensure the ‘sustainability’ of agriculture without water. Therefore, we place water at the center of our agricultural policies.”

The Minister indicated that the world is currently in a transition period and described it as a “New Normal.” Minister Yumaklı explained the measures his ministry is taking in this New Normal period to secure food supply and prevent producers from facing marketing issues. The measures include effective land use, water management, and production planning. “We will now plan what, where, and how much we will produce,” the Minister said, “starting this year.” With the help of water-centered agricultural production planning, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry aims to increase agricultural productivity by producing strategic crops in the most suitable locations, Minister Yumaklı announced.

Another topic on the Minister’s agenda was collaborative efforts to achieve “Zero Hunger.” Emphasizing the fundamentality of food in human rights, Yumaklı shared that over 800 million people are unable to access this right. Later on, he highlighted the zionist massacre in Gaza, leading to food insecurity for approximately half a million people. He said, “The atrocities committed against Palestinians in Gaza are unacceptably blocking millions of people from accessing food and water. This mental blockade, which has been ongoing for almost a year, must end for the sake of humanity.”

Noting Türkiye’s increasing integration into global trade networks, Minister Yumaklı stated, “As Türkiye, we recognize the importance of expanding sustainable agricultural practices. This approach will be beneficial and align with global efforts to address climate change and ensure the long-term resilience of food systems.”

Emphasizing that a sustainable future is not just a possibility but a necessity, Yumaklı concluded by stating that the entire world must commit to an environmentally secure, food-sufficient, and climate-resilient world.

Minister Yumaklı also met with agriculture ministers from various countries during the summit. (ILKHA)