The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) reaffirmed its strategic partnership with the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) during the 50th session of the APF, held in Paris from 11–12 July 2025. The event brought together over 300 parliamentarians from across the Francophone world, offering a unique platform to advance dialogue on agrifood systems transformation and sustainable development. 

At the invitation of the APF President, FAO’s Deputy Director for Partnerships and UN Collaboration, Fatouma Seid; and Partnerships Specialist, Boris Gandon,participated in the event. Seid addressed the Commission for Economic, Social and Environmental Affairs (CAESE) –in a session that brought together33 parliamentarians and advisers from 17 countries –highlighting the critical role of parliamentarians in combating hunger and malnutrition. Her presentation focused on FAO's parliamentary engagements worldwide and on the upcoming Third Global Parliamentary Summit against Hunger and Malnutrition, to be hosted by FAO at the Pan-African Parliament in 2026. The Commission also welcomed Senator Gérard Larcher, Speaker of the French Senate and host of the event, who underscored the vulnerability of rural areas and the vital role of the Commission in addressing issues to bridge the urban–rural divide.  

The session sparked dynamic exchanges with representatives from numerouscountries and subnational assemblies, underscoring strong interest in FAO’s work. Discussions also explored past and future collaboration on key issues such as food loss and waste, resilient agriculture, and circular economy. 

On the sidelines, FAO held bilateral meetings with APF leaders and there wasrenewed commitment to finalize a new formal partnership between FAO and APF, ensuring continued support for evidence-based policymaking and capacity building among parliamentarians.