Opening ceremony
Friday, 10 October 2025 | From 16.00 to 18.00 (CEST)
Park of Porta Capena, Rome
15.30 – 16.00 | Accreditation
16.00 – 16.40 | Welcome addresses
| Agenda item | Speakers |
|---|---|
| Welcome by moderators |
|
| Welcome prelude | Sara Curruchich, 2025 World Food Forum Singer of the Year |
| Opening remarks | QU Dongyu, Director-General, FAO |
| Head of State address | His Majesty King Letsie III, the Kingdom of Lesotho |
| Host country address | Francesco Lollobrigida, Minister for Agriculture, Food Sovereignty and Forests, Italy |
| Ministerial address | H.E. Rachmat Pambudy, Minister for National Development Planning / Chairman of Bappenas, Indonesia |
| Host city welcome | Roberto Gualtieri, Mayor of Rome (TBC) |
| Video | “Discover the journey from seeds to foods” |
16.40 – 16.45 | Ceremonial launch
| Agenda item | Speakers |
|---|---|
| Ribbon-cutting |
|
| Group photo | High-level delegation |
17.00 – 17.30 | Cultural performance
Rhythms of the Agricultural Fields - Performed by Jeonbuk Gukak Center from the Republic of Korea
17.30 – 19.00 | Pavilion visit
Explore Products of the World and Innovation in Agrifood Systems
Day-wise programme schedule
Main stage
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.00 – 13.00 | World Farmers’ Market Coalition Assembly (Closed event) The Third General Assembly unites delegations from over 80 countries and 100 associations. This essential meeting strengthens the global family and network of farmers' markets. |
| 16.00 – 17.00 | High-Level Opening Ceremony The Opening Ceremony will feature a welcome prelude with a live music performance by Sara Curruchich, followed by key addresses from high-level officials, including FAO Director-General QU Dongyu and His Majesty King Letsie III. The event will conclude with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony and a vibrant traditional Korean percussion music performance. |
Products of the world
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.00 – 19.00 | Display of agricultural products from around the world Step into a journey across continents and cultures, where the rich diversity of agrifood systems comes to life. From crops and livestock to forestry, fisheries, and aquaculture, discover how food is produced, processed, marketed and ultimately enjoyed. Explore the regional pavilions showcasing agricultural products from around the world, telling stories of people, traditions and innovation. Africa: From roots to resilience Asia and the Pacific: From tradition to innovation Europe and Central Asia: The power of diverse cereals and pulses Latin America and the Caribbean: Agrobiodiversity for life and livelihoods Near East and North Africa: Seeds of ancient civilizations feed the present and the future North America: Innovation, heritage and sustainability in action |
Innovations in agrifood systems
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.00 – 19.00 | Display of agricultural technologies and innovations Explore cutting-edge technologies - from aquaponics and smart greenhouses to seed vault replicas. Visitors experience firsthand how innovation is shaping sustainable global agriculture. |
Foods of the world
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.10 – 10.20 | Tea Ceremony organized by GIHAS China A mindful ritual celebrating harmony, respect, and tranquillity. Guests enjoy tea tasting while experiencing China’s ceremonial traditions. |
| 10.30 – 11.30 | Las pellas de gofio, alimento aborigen – Pellas de Golfo led by Chef David Hidalgo A live cooking session featuring traditional Canarian recipes made with olive oil and honey. Chef Hidalgo blends ancient flavours with modern presentation to tell the story of Spain’s culinary roots. Organized by Agricultural Systems in Jable and Volcanic Sands in Lanzarote Island, Spain (GIAHS). |
| 12.00 – 13.00 | Sweet Masoub Tart & Aubergine Fatteh led by Chef Ammar Chef Ammar will present two dishes that celebrate the essence of Saudi cuisine through creativity and modern flair. The Sweet Masoub Tart is a creative Saudi-inspired dessert reimagining the traditional Masoub in a modern tart form. This dish blends the familiar comfort of ripe bananas, dates, and cream with the finesse of French pastry. The Aubergine Fatteh offers a rich oriental classic elevated with a Saudi touch, layering aubergine, yogurt sauce, and crispy bread infused with the warmth and depth of Middle Eastern cuisine. |
| 13.30 – 14.30 | Seafood Piadina led by Chef Antonio Morritti Chef Morritti presents a coastal twist on Italy’s classic piadina using sea lettuce dough, Tropea onions, and marinated anchovies. The dish reflects the Adriatic’s freshness and Italy’s spirit of culinary innovation. Organized by Alga Ulisse, Italy. |
| 14.30 – 15.00 | Guided tasting led by Interreg Euro-MED GIAHS Project A tasting dedicated to Spain’s Añana salt, produced through centuries-old artisanal methods. The experience highlights how salt reflects heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainability. |
Main stage
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.15 – 11.15 | Hands-On: Soil and Seeds for Sustainability, with Cercatori di Semi A fun, family-friendly workshop where participants explore soils, seeds, and sustainability through planting, storytelling, and hands-on learning. Each guest takes home a recycled pot planted with resilient or pollinator-friendly seeds. |
| 11.30 – 12.30 | Food Heroes in Action Food heroes are everywhere, from farmers and fishers to family members who prepare meals, and through this workshop participants will learn how they too can be food heroes by sharing stories of those who inspire them through comics. |
| 12.35 – 13.00 | Al-Ardha Saudi Traditional Dance Performed by artists from Saudi Arabia, this dance reflects the kingdom’s deep cultural pride. Its rhythmic sword movements and chants symbolize unity and heritage. |
| 13.00 – 13.25 | Tribute to Ceres A theatre and dance performance by the Cerealia Festival, Italy, inspired by the ancient Roman goddess of harvests. The piece brings to life rituals once held at the Circus Maximus, celebrating abundance and renewal. |
| 13.35 – 14.00 | Performance by the Indonesian Angklung Art Group A musical performance blending traditional bamboo instruments with contemporary rhythms. The Indonesian ensemble fills the stage with harmony and cultural vibrance. |
| 14.15 – 14.45 | Mindful food futures – Bhutan’s living wisdom meets global agrifood innovation An immersive session inspired by Bhutan’s mindful approach to sustainability. Farmers and innovators share insights on balancing tradition with modern agrifood innovation. |
| 15.00 – 15.30 | Diversifying crops in Nigerian drylands: An FAO Türkiye-Nigeria South-South Cooperation success story High-level speakers and a panel from Türkiye and Nigeria will showcase how smallholder farmers in Borno State are strengthening food systems through crop diversification. The discussion highlights field success stories and sustainable production models. |
| 15.45 – 16.15 | Seeds of change: youth shaping the future of food Young innovators from Asia and the Pacific share their journeys in agrifood entrepreneurship and research. The session showcases how youth-led action is driving resilience and transformation. |
| 16.15 – 16.30 | Pungmul Korean Parade Performance A performance from Republic of Korea, bringing drumming, dance, and festive energy to the crowd. A joyful celebration of rhythm, teamwork, and cultural pride. |
| 16.30 – 17.00 | Discover the Globally Important Agricultural Heritage Systems (GIAHS) A session highlighting the MED GIAHS Network, the European GIAHS Network, and the Latin America–Europe Network. Speakers share stories of heritage preservation and sustainable rural development. |
| 17.00 – 17.30 | The secret ingredient to your (safe) recipe – Codex A lively talk on the Codex Alimentarius, the world’s “food code,” and its role in keeping food safe and fair. The session links Italy’s historic leadership to its global mission protecting food from farm to table. |
| 17.45 – 18.15 | Talk by Azienda Comunale Energia e Ambiente (ACEA) A lively talk organized by the Azienda Comunale Energia e Ambiente (ACEA) linking its role and contribution to the agrifood systems. |
| 18.15 – 18.30 | Al-Ardha Saudi Traditional Dance A second vibrant performance from Saudi Arabia, showcasing the power of rhythm, unity, and cultural heritage. The dance embodies pride and tradition in motion. |
| 18.30 – 19.00 | Different countries, different milk A talk exploring the cultural and environmental value of native dairy breeds. Organized by Organizzazione Nazionale Assaggiatori di Formaggi (ONAF), the National Organisation of Cheese Tasters, Italy. |
Products of the world
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.00 – 19.00 | Display of agricultural products from around the world Step into a journey across continents and cultures, where the rich diversity of agrifood systems comes to life. From crops and livestock to forestry, fisheries, and aquaculture, discover how food is produced, processed, marketed and ultimately enjoyed. Explore the regional pavilions showcasing agricultural products from around the world, telling stories of people, traditions and innovation. Africa: From roots to resilience Asia and the Pacific: From tradition to innovation Europe and Central Asia: The power of diverse cereals and pulses Latin America and the Caribbean: Agrobiodiversity for life and livelihoods Near East and North Africa: Seeds of ancient civilizations feed the present and the future North America: Innovation, heritage and sustainability in action |
Foods of the world
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.00 – 11.30 | ALTReMENTI Chef, contest-style cooking competition This 90 min contest-style cooking competition featuring Emanuele Raffaelli, Irene Lucioli, Dimitar Cavallini, and Pietro Lastrucci competing under the leadership of Chefs Carcangiu and Crimaldi, Istituto Diplomatico Internazionale, Italy will celebrate the heritage of Roman cuisine as a symbol of cultural identity and sustainable food practices. |
| 12.00 – 13.00 | A Journey into the Flavors of the Jordanian Desert - Jordanian Mansaf presented by Mona Bakeer of Jordan Chef Mona Bakeer and her assistant Noor will recreate the warmth of Bedouin hospitality through traditional Mansaf and heritage dish Lazyaqiyat. Cooked over open fire, this experience captures the authentic Flavors, aromas, and cultural richness of Jordan’s desert traditions. Organized by Rawaq Al-Badia Cultural Association, Jordan. |
| 13.00 – 13.30 | Guided tasting led by Interreg Euro-MED GIAHS Project A tasting dedicated to Spain’s Añana salt, produced through centuries-old artisanal methods. The experience highlights how salt reflects heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainability. |
| 13.30 – 14.30 | Between tradition and longevity led by Chef Francesco Capirchio, Cerealia, Italy The culinary heritage of southern Lazio. The ancient cultivation of the Campodimele (Latina) grass pea will be promoted through the preparation of traditional recipe for "pasta with chickling peas" featuring this legume, which many believe is the basis of the longevity of the small town's inhabitant. |
| 14.30 – 15.00 | Guided tasting led by Interreg Euro-MED GIAHS Project A tasting of wines crafted from Spain’s sun-dried grapes in the Axarquía GIAHS region. Visitors experience how traditional viticulture sustains biodiversity and flavour richness. |
| 15.00 – 16.00 | Bajan Buljol - a demonstration of a Barbadian classic led by Chef Jason Howard This umami-rich dish, prepared with salted cod, fresh herbs, and vibrant island flavours, brings warmth and comfort to the table. Organized by Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., Barbados. |
| 16.30 – 17.30 | The Chilies that add flavour to the world led by Chef Lina Jiménez This cooking demonstration explores chili as an essential ingredient in gastronomy and a symbol of cultural identity. Organized by El Jalapeño, Mexico. |
| 17.30 – 18.00 | Guided tasting led by Interreg Euro-MED GIAHS Project Discover the unique flavour and cultural significance of Spain’s sun-dried Málaga traditional raisins in a tasting experience. |
| 18.00 – 19.00 | Shepherd's Soup led by Chef Lucio Andrianò Join the Chef to discover a traditional rustic soup from the pastoral cuisine of central-southern Italy. The dish celebrates humble ingredients that have nourished generations. Organized by Fondazione Popoli e Territori, Italy. |
Main stage
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.15 – 10.30 | Al-Ardha Saudi Traditional Dance Performed by artists from Saudi Arabia, this dance reflects the kingdom’s deep cultural pride. Its rhythmic sword movements and chants symbolize unity and heritage. |
| 10.15 – 10.45 | Geospatial Information and Engineering Systems (GIES) technologies supporting One Country One Product (OCOP) initiative Explore how GIES technologies enable data-driven agricultural planning and innovation. This session highlights how geospatial tools optimize production and support sustainable local economies. |
| 11.00 – 11.30 | Genetic resources and innovation: Safeguarding our Seeds and Cultivating a Sustainable Future A discussion on conserving plant genetic resources to ensure food security. Experts explore innovative approaches that balance heritage preservation with modern agricultural needs. |
| 11.30 – 12.00 | Mongolian Cashmere Fashion Show A showcase of elegant cashmere designs by artists from Mongolia. The performance celebrates traditional techniques, sustainability, and contemporary style. |
| 11.45 – 12.15 | From seeds to table: Jordan's agricultural innovations Discover how Jordan is turning its challenges into opportunities through agricultural innovation. This talk will highlight pioneering solutions in soil management, water-saving technologies, and animal health diagnostics that contribute to sustainable food systems. |
| 12.30 – 12.55 | Bhutan: Boedra Dance – Blessing in every grain A graceful dance from Bhutan reflecting respect for harvests and agricultural abundance. The performance blends artistry with mindfulness, highlighting the connection between culture and food. |
| 13.15 – 13.30 | Performance by the Inganjī Cultural Troupe A cultural showcase of music and dance. Performers from Rwanda bring heritage and storytelling together in a colorful, immersive experience. |
| 13.45 – 14.15 | Sustainability and decarbonization of aquaculture This talk focuses on sustainable aquaculture practices and energy-efficient solutions, shaping a blue future with the Consiglio per la Ricerca in Agricoltura e Analisi dell’Economica Agraria (CREA). Experts discuss decarbonization strategies that make aquaculture more environmentally responsible. |
| 14.30 – 15.00 | ePhyto: ensuring safe food through safe trade Phytosanitary certificates are required for exports to meet plant health standards, but paper versions are costly and prone to fraud or loss. This session will include a theatrical performance to showcase the IPPC ePhyto Solution, which replaces paper certificates with secure digital ones—speeding up trade, cutting costs, and ensuring safe, pest-free imports. |
| 15.05 – 15.15 | Pungmul Korean Parade Performance A lively parade from Republic of Korea blending rhythmic drumming, dance, and colourful costumes. The performance celebrates Korean rural traditions and community spirit. |
| 15.15 – 15.45 | GAP IQ™ – Next-Gen data intelligence for informed, timely decision making in agricultural systems Discover how GAP IQ™ turns agricultural data into actionable insights using AI-powered dashboards and modelling. The session demonstrates tools that support smarter, timely decisions for farmers and investors. |
| 16.00 – 16.30 | Talk by World Farmers Markets Coalition (to be confirmed) |
| 16.30 – 17.00 | Mongolian cashmere fashion show A showcase of elegant cashmere designs by artists from Mongolia. The repeat performance celebrates traditional techniques, sustainability, and contemporary style. |
| 17.00 – 17.45 | Workshop on AgroAdapt: Cultivate the future – a roleplaying boardgame Participants engage in a collaborative simulation game where players take on roles to tackle climate challenges in agrifood systems through strategic decision-making and teamwork. |
| 17.50 – 18.00 | Mongolian cashmere fashion show A showcase of elegant cashmere designs by artists from Mongolia. The repeat performance celebrates traditional techniques, sustainability, and contemporary style. |
| 18.00 – 18.45 | Workshop on smart food safety: How nuclear technologies protect what we eat Try lab tests on food and drinks for one day and see for yourself how technologies protect what we eat! A hands-on experience showing how advanced technologies safeguard food. |
| 18.15 – 18.30 | Al-Ardha Saudi traditional dance Performed by artists from Saudi Arabia, this dance reflects the kingdom’s deep cultural pride. Its rhythmic sword movements and chants symbolize unity and heritage. |
Products of the world
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.00 – 19.00 | Display of agricultural products from around the world Step into a journey across continents and cultures, where the rich diversity of agrifood systems comes to life. From crops and livestock to forestry, fisheries, and aquaculture, discover how food is produced, processed, marketed and ultimately enjoyed. Explore the regional pavilions showcasing agricultural products from around the world, telling stories of people, traditions and innovation. Africa: From roots to resilience Asia and the Pacific: From tradition to innovation Europe and Central Asia: The power of diverse cereals and pulses Latin America and the Caribbean: Agrobiodiversity for life and livelihoods Near East and North Africa: Seeds of ancient civilizations feed the present and the future North America: Innovation, heritage and sustainability in action |
Innovations in agrifood systems
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.00 – 19.00 | Display of agricultural technologies and innovations Explore cutting-edge technologies, from aquaponics and smart greenhouses to seed vault replicas. Visitors experience firsthand how innovation is shaping sustainable global agriculture. |
Foods of the world
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.10 – 10.20 | Tea Ceremony organized by GIHAS China A mindful ritual celebrating harmony, respect, and tranquillity. Guests enjoy tea tasting while experiencing China’s ceremonial traditions. |
| 10.30 – 11.30 | Date-Glazed Beef Tenderloin Steak with Mushroom Orzo Risotto led by Chef Ammar A fusion dish featuring date molasses steak and creamy mushroom risotto, showcasing how the richness of Saudi dates transforms classic dishes into an elevated culinary experience. Organized by National Centre for Palms and Dates, Saudi Arabia. |
| 12.00 – 13.00 | Ugali & Sukuma Wiki led by Chefs Jedidah Wambui Nderitu and Francesco Soldati A lively cooking demonstration featuring one of Kenya’s most iconic dishes: Ugali with Sukuma Wiki. Simple, hearty, and full of flavour, this traditional meal offers a true taste of Kenya. Organized by World Farmers Markets Coalition. |
| 13.30 – 14.30 | Gathering Flavors of the North - Fried bannock with berries Experience the richness of Canada’s Indigenous cuisine as Chef Stephanie Baryluk, from Nihkhah, Canada brings to life traditional ingredients and stories, blending ancestral knowledge with modern culinary creativity. |
| 14.30 – 15.00 | Guided tasting led by UNAPROL, Italy Experience the rich diversity of Italy’s olive oils in a guided tasting that explores regional varieties, aromas, and flavour profile. |
| 15.00 – 16.00 | Ukrainian Varenyky and Deruny – led by Chef Halyna Pryshlyakivska An interactive cooking demonstration of classic Ukrainian dumplings and potato pancakes, followed by a tasting experience. Organized by the Embassy of Ukraine. |
| 16.00 – 16.30 | Guided tasting led by UNAPROL, Italy Another tasting session featuring Italy’s finest olive oils. Participants gain insights into production techniques and sensory evaluation. |
| 16.30 – 17.30 | Adobo & DO pallares: A Mochica-inspired feast led by Chef Andrew Gibbon Chef Andrew demonstrates Andean and Mochica culinary heritage through adobo and DO Pallares dishes. The session emphasizes biodiversity, tradition, and sustainable gastronomy. Organized by Le Cordon Bleu, Peru. |
| 18.00 – 19.00 | Traditional Algerian Couscous led by Chef Sofiane Ben Cherifa Chef Sofiane presents traditional couscous, a UNESCO-recognized cultural dish. The cooking demonstration covers semolina preparation, steaming techniques, and regional variations full of flavour and heritage. |
Main stage
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.15 – 10.30 | Al-Ardha Saudi Traditional Dance Performed by artists from Saudi Arabia, this dance reflects the kingdom’s deep cultural pride. Its rhythmic sword movements and chants symbolize unity and heritage. |
| 10.15 – 11.15 | Seeds of heritage: A hands-on journey into craftsmanship Hands-on workshop where participants craft their own wooden accessories in the shape of date seeds, guided by a Saudi artisan who shares the tradition’s cultural roots and techniques. |
| 11.30 – 12.30 | From seeds to light: Crafting hope with Hanji lanterns Craft a traditional Hanji lantern and a Korean lucky pouch filled with seeds. This hands-on workshop celebrates hope, growth, and abundance, linking cultural traditions with sustainable agrifood systems. |
| 12.30 – 13.00 | Pungmul Korean Parade Performance A vibrant parade from Republic of Korea, featuring drumming, dance, and colorful costumes. The performance reflects festive spirit, tradition, and the dynamic energy of Korean culture. |
Products of the world
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.00 – 13.00 | Display of agricultural products from around the world Step into a journey across continents and cultures, where the rich diversity of agrifood systems comes to life. From crops and livestock to forestry, fisheries, and aquaculture, discover how food is produced, processed, marketed and ultimately enjoyed. Explore the regional pavilions showcasing agricultural products from around the world, telling stories of people, traditions and innovation. Africa: From roots to resilience Asia and the Pacific: From tradition to innovation Europe and Central Asia: The power of diverse cereals and pulses Latin America and the Caribbean: Agrobiodiversity for life and livelihoods Near East and North Africa: Seeds of ancient civilizations feed the present and the future North America: Innovation, heritage and sustainability in action |
Innovations in agrifood systems
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.00 – 13.00 | Display of agricultural technologies and innovations Explore cutting-edge technologies, from aquaponics and smart greenhouses to seed vault replicas. Visitors experience firsthand how innovation is shaping sustainable global agriculture. |
Foods of the world
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10.10 – 10.20 | Tea Ceremony organized by GIHAS China A mindful ritual celebrating harmony, respect, and tranquillity. Guests enjoy tea tasting while experiencing China’s ceremonial traditions. |
| 10.00 – 11.30 | Essenzialità From food to culture- Bean and Corn Soup led by Chef Peppe Guida, Italy Chef Peppe Guida transforms simple ingredients like beans, corn, fig leaf oil, and herbs into dishes that nourish body and spirit. His demonstration shows how traditional cuisine can preserve culture while promoting health and taste. |
| 11.30 – 12.00 | Guided coffee tasting A lively coffee tasting experience hosted by the Permanent Representation of Colombia to the UN agencies in Rome. It offers participants a chance to sample and appreciate various premium Colombian coffees, focusing on their unique origins and flavour profiles. |
| 12.00 – 13.00 | Flavors and aromas of Venezuelan food sovereignty – Arepas Chefs Dolores Álvarez and José Gregorio Hinojosa prepare Arepas – a thick, round cornflour "bun" central to Venezuelan cuisine, using native ingredients that represent the country’s productive potential and culinary traditions such as local rice, cacao, and corn. Organized by National Institute of Nutrition, Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. |