Bilateral Meeting with H.E. Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson, Minister for the Environment, Energy and Climate of Iceland

Reykjavík - On the occasion of his official visit to Iceland, the Director-General met with H.E. Jóhann Páll Jóhannsson, Minister for the Environment, Energy and Climate of Iceland.

The Director-General thanked the Minister for the warm welcome and proceeded to provide an overview of the founding of FAO 80 years ago, noting that Iceland was one of the 36 founding members. The Director-General also informed on the unique structure and governance of the Organization, based on a system of assessed and voluntary contributions. He emphasised FAO’s universal relevance to all its 194 Members regardless of levels of development.

The Director-General expressed his appreciation for Iceland’s leadership in the management of fisheries to protect the marine environment. He also emphasised the role of youth in the transformation of global agrifood systems and referred to the Global Youth Forum, which he had established as one of the three pillars of the World Food Forum held at FAO Headquarters in Rome every October, to accelerate Youth action for this transformation.

The Director-General remarked that Iceland’s development training, which extended its expertise through various courses, could have a particular impact on Small Island Developing States (SIDS), as Iceland served as a model of excellence.

Minister Jóhannsson welcomed the Director-General to Iceland and referred to FAO’s resilience in the face of current global challenges and commended the Organization for its ongoing and steadfast support to Members. The Minister proceeded to provide an overview of Iceland’s experience in renewable energies, including hydro and geothermal, whilst protecting ecosystems.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to continue working together to advance environmental sustainability, strengthening youth engagement, and exploring new avenues for Iceland’s contribution to global food security and climate resilience.