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| 2008 Chinese New Year message |
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In today’s world, change is the only thing that remains constant. Institutions need to evolve in order to be more responsive and efficient. In recognition of this, FAO has restructured itself over the past 12 years, resulting in a reinvigorated organization through a decentralization and devolution process that ensured bringing more expertise to the field, close to our member countries, and near the farmers and the very people in developing countries who require our assistance and support.
Late last year, the report of the first ever Independent External Evaluation of FAO called for reform with growth – requiring the organization to make fundamental strategic choices and concentrate on priority areas that optimize its comparative advantages and improve its operational efficiency.
Indeed, the global food situation has shifted dramatically. With production growing more slowly and consumption patterns diversifying rapidly, meeting the food demands of present and future generations poses tremendous challenges. At the same time, increasing pressures have been placed on existing production techniques and cropping patterns as a consequence of climate change, increased frequencies and severity of natural disasters, plant pests and animal diseases.
As a result, in the Asia-Pacific region FAO and its partners are simultaneously addressing food production and safety, livelihoods, employment and food access. Integrating these issues in a holistic approach requires priority attention to an appropriate and enabling environment of policies, institutions, legislation and infrastructure – all requiring greater investments.
FAO has an obligation to do more and better in the future and to further raise the awareness of decision-makers and the public opinion on measures to tackle chronic hunger and poverty and achieving the UN Millennium Development Goals.
While 2008 is yet another critical year, we stand ready to join hands with our members and development partners to bring a better future to the people of this region.
Chinese new year is a joyous occasion for me to wish a Happy New Year to all of you and convey my appreciation for your cooperation with FAO.
- He Changchui
Bangkok, 6 February 2008 |
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