The critical role of data-driven strategies in shaping sustainable development policies for landlocked countries was highlighted at the International High-Level Forum of Landlocked Developing Countries (LLDCs) held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan.

 

Landlocked countries often face unique challenges such as limited access to markets, high transportation costs and vulnerability to climate change, said the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture (ICBA) Director General Dr Tarifa Al Zaabi. 

 

Dr Al Zaabi emphasised the need for collecting and analysing accurate and comprehensive data to inform policy decisions that can enhance agricultural productivity and resilience. 

 

Research capabilities

She also highlighted the importance of building strong research capacities within LLDCs to generate local solutions and foster innovation.

 

The forum, which highlighted Uzbekistan’s potential for investment and export growth in agriculture and food sectors, underscored the value of international cooperation and knowledge exchange to enhance sustainability and resilience in agri-food systems.

 

On the second day of the forum, ICBA further strengthened its collaborative efforts by signing two significant MoUs. 

 

The first MoU was signed between Dr Al Zaabi and Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov, Minister of Agriculture of Uzbekistan. This agreement focuses on cooperation in sustainable agriculture, including the development and scaling up of sustainable agricultural production systems, organising capacity-building events, facilitating research exchange, and empowering women in agriculture through targeted initiatives aimed at enhancing their research and leadership skills.

 

Second MoU

The second MoU was signed by Dr Al Zaabi and Professor Islamov Sohib Yaxshibekovich, Rector of Tashkent State Agrarian University (TSAU). It aims to promote joint research initiatives, develop internship and fellowship programmes, and support a wide range of academic activities such as workshops, conferences, and webinars. It also includes the establishment of an ICBA Youth Engagement Society (ICBA YES) chapter at TSAU, designed to foster youth involvement and leadership in agricultural development.

 

Organised by the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan (MoA) in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO), the forum brought together high-level dignitaries, including government ministers, heads of international organisations, and private sector leaders, to address the critical challenges and opportunities for agri-food systems in LLDCs.

Dr Al Zaabi participated as a key speaker in a side event on “Evidence-Based Policymaking for Sustainable Development in LLDCs”. 

 

In the high-level plenary session titled "The Urgency and Opportunities for Agri-Food Systems Development in Landlocked Developing Countries," Dr Al Zaabi emphasised the importance of adopting innovative approaches to enhance the resilience of agri-food systems, highlighting the need for agricultural solutions capable of addressing environmental and economic challenges. 

 

She presented ICBA's initiatives focused on developing climate-resilient crops, optimising water use, and improving soil health. She also discussed the use of advanced technologies such as remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for effective agricultural resource management. Dr Al Zaabi reaffirmed ICBA's commitment to advancing scientific research and fostering international partnerships to support sustainable development and food security.

 

Joint initiatives

In addition to the forum events, the ICBA delegation met Sharof Rajabbayev, Director of the Innovative Development Agency of Uzbekistan, to discuss joint initiatives. The discussions focused on developing innovative projects to improve soil quality in the Aral Sea region, creating internship opportunities for young talents, and organising international forums and conferences to facilitate knowledge transfer and cooperation on critical issues related to science, technology and sustainability.

 

Reflecting on these engagements, Dr Al Zaabi commented: “These partnerships represent our commitment to working hand in hand with local and international partners to bring about tangible improvements in agricultural practices, enhance food security, and build resilient communities. By combining our expertise and resources, we can address the unique challenges faced by landlocked countries and ensure sustainable growth for the future.”

 

The ICBA delegation’s visit to Uzbekistan marks a significant step forward in strengthening international cooperation to address the unique challenges faced by landlocked developing countries. Through active participation in high-level discussions, signing strategic MoUs, and fostering partnerships with key stakeholders, ICBA continues to advance its mission of promoting sustainable agricultural practices and food security. 

 

These efforts underscore ICBA's commitment to leveraging innovation, research, and collaboration to build resilient agri-food systems and contribute to global sustainable development goals.--TradeArabia News Service