Read-out of the bilateral meeting between FAO Director-General, QU Dongyu, and the Minister for Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries of Argentina, Luis Eugenio Basterra

27 July 2021, Rome - FAO Director-General, QU Dongyu, and the Minister for Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries of Argentina, Luis Eugenio Basterra, had a meeting today in which they talked about the importance of joint work, innovation and clear strategies to transform agri-food systems and achieve sustainable development.

The Minister stressed the efforts of the Argentinian Government to seek consensus, both internally and externally, on how to face the challenges ahead, particularly with regarding to SDGs 1 (No Poverty), 2 (No Hunger) and 10 (Reduced Inequalities). In this sense, he noted, for instance, that Latin American countries were able to reach agreements and protocols to ensure trade amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Minister Basterra observed that, in Argentina’s view, FAO has a central role in the international scenario to promote joint and collaborative work among different stakeholders. He conveyed his appreciation for FAO’s approach to foster innovation and promote technological tools towards digital farming, and highlighted the importance of moving ahead based on the concepts of inclusiveness and equity.

The Director-General noted the big potential of Argentina to develop its agricultural and rural areas, and contribute to global sustainability. He noted that the G20 offers a good platform to discuss global challenges, and highlighted that the transformation of agri-food systems should be based on inclusiveness, digitalization and innovation. Furthermore, the Director-General suggested that Argentina should put in place stable policies and design a long-term strategy to promote its sustainable development.

In addition, he noted the potential and opportunities for Argentina to better promote its products from the fisheries and aquaculture sectors in the international markets.