WORLD FOOD DAY 2024 Presentation of the Food and Agriculture Museum & Network Opening Remarks

Excellences,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Dear Colleagues,

As announced during the World Food Day Ceremony, today marks the 80-1 anniversary, a countdown to FAO's 80th birthday.

A day we will celebrate with the opening of the Food and Agriculture Museum & Network.

Today, I am delighted to be joined by Mr Stefano Gatti, Director-General for Development Cooperation of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, and I extend my gratitude to Italy, our host country, for the invaluable support in planning and implementing this special initiative.

The museum will serve as a permanent exhibition and educational space open to the public, dedicated to food and agriculture, to food culture, and to FAO’s mandate.

This interactive, digital environment will foster knowledge-sharing and celebrate the richness of global culinary traditions.

We will also emphasize advancements in science and agricultural production, highlighting the role of innovation in shaping our future.

The importance of community will be also at the forefront, showcasing the contributions of women, youth, and Indigenous Peoples in building a sustainable future.

As a center of knowledge, FAO's library collection is undergoing digitization to enhance its invaluable resources. While this space is transformed into the museum, the library will continue to thrive and be valued.

Since FAO moved to Rome in 1951, the city has supported our advocacy efforts. Rome also hosted the International Institute of Agriculture in the early 20th century, whose library collection is now at FAO.

As FAO is an integral part of the community in Rome - our host city - I wish to thank Sabrina Alfonsi, Councilor to the Agriculture, Environment and Waste Cycle of the Rome Municipality for joining us today, as this initiative will bring FAO even closer to the people of Rome.

The museum will also be a network, connecting best practices in digital agriculture, while celebrating traditional knowledge. 

Today, also marks an important milestone as FAO signs a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Center for the Study of the Conservation and Restoration of Cultural Heritage - ICCROM.

I welcome the ICCROM Director-General, Aruna Gujral, for joining us. This MoU marks the beginning of a meaningful collaboration for the Museum and Network.

ICCROM was established here in Rome in 1959 – eight years after FAO was relocated here. Both organizations were born from the hope and vision of a better world in the aftermath of the Second World War, sharing a commitment to preserving and advancing global heritage – heritage of cultures, foods and traditions.

We look forward to working with all Members and partners to enrich this experience.

Thank you.