Leyla Aliyeva met with the Head of FAO’s Partnership and Liaison Office in Azerbaijan

On June 24, Leyla Aliyeva, Vice-President of the Heydar Aliyev Foundation, UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Goodwill Ambassador, and founder and head of the IDEA Public Union, met with Melak Chakmak, Head of FAO’s Partnership and Liaison Office in Azerbaijan.

The meeting discussed FAO’s activities in Azerbaijan, cooperation between IDEA and FAO, the application of advanced international practices in our country, participation in regional and international projects, and other issues. M. Chakmak provided information about the projects and programs implemented by the office she leads in Azerbaijan and spoke about FAO’s future plans. She noted that the recent economic development in Azerbaijan has had a positive impact on ensuring food security in the country. It was emphasized that Azerbaijan is among the rare states that do not experience hunger or food shortages.

Leyla Aliyeva stated that promoting environmentally friendly and sustainable approaches in FAO-implemented programs and projects is important for the continuity of initiatives. She emphasized that in this regard, it is necessary to promote the application of “green technology” and organize specialized training for local experts and farmers. Leyla Aliyeva also suggested involving representatives of civil society and local communities in the projects, alongside government agencies, to fully ensure the success of the initiatives.

During the meeting, the issue of promoting food security on a global scale within the framework of the Baku Process on Intercultural Dialogue was also discussed. This issue is directly reflected in the Memorandum of Understanding signed in 2013 between FAO and the United Nations Alliance of Civilizations (UNAOC).

Leyla Aliyeva expressed her support for cooperation between UNAOC and FAO and stated that, as FAO Goodwill Ambassador, she is ready to promote food security and healthy nutrition at both regional and international levels. She emphasized that this work is important in terms of the UN 2030 Agenda, particularly in combating poverty and hunger.

The parties agreed to continue meetings and consultations on joint activities on a regular basis.