The official launch of the 2016 International Year of Pulses (IYP) will be held at FAO Headquarters on 10 November from 11 am to 12:30 pm (CET). The ceremony will mark the beginning of a year-long initiative to raise awareness about the important crops and their many benefits.

In addition to official remarks given by FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva, representatives from member states, UN agencies, the private sector, civil society and farmers’ organizations will speak to the importance of pulses and the aims of the year. The Permanent Representatives of Turkey and Pakistan, who serve as co-chairs of the IYP Steering Committee, will provide opening and closing remarks for the ceremony.

The launch will be webcast live on the IYP homepage. A video of the event will be posted shortly thereafter.