Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation

Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation, 13th Session 2021 

Director-General Video Message

 

His Highness Sheikh Nahayan Al Nahayan, Minister of Tolerance,

Distinguished Guests, 

1. Palm Dates have been cultivated for over six thousand years, as staple food, source of wealth and as an important part of cultural heritage.
2. A superfood, rich with fiber, protein, minerals and vitamins, they contribute to food security and are an integral part of healthy diets.
3. The historical date palm oases in the UAE that are recognized as Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) sites, testify to agricultural ingenuity in hard environmental conditions.
4. We share your spirit of innovation; to find new and better ways of doing things, while maintaining the wisdom of our ancestors.
5. Today, we need to apply science-based and modern approaches to date production, storage and marketing.
6. FAO is supporting all Members in their efforts to transform agri-food systems, making them more efficient, inclusive, resilient and sustainable.
7. We do so through scientific advice, technical support and global initiatives.
8. In the extended International Year of Plant Health, we are redoubling efforts to control pests, such as the red palm weevil, which threatens the date palm and the livelihoods of millions.
9. We share innovative technologies with our Members, such as a dedicated mobile app that provides early warning and valuable advice on how to deal with the red palm weevil.
10. As the UN agency leading the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables 2021, we work with Members and partners to promote the benefits of dates.
11. And the next Session of the UN General Assembly will review a recommendation of the FAO Council to declare 2027 the International Year of Date Palm.
12. Our joint efforts can facilitate exchange and unlock partnership opportunities to the benefit of all Members who are producing, trading, processing and importing dates.
13. Together we can drive innovative solutions for Better production, Better Nutrition, a Better Environment, and a Better Life!
14. Thank you.