The United Nations General Assembly, during its 75th Session held in March 2021, declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), as the lead institution celebrating this year, aims to raise awareness about the important contribution of millets to food security, their nutritional benefits and their potential for production under challenging climate conditions.

The aim of the event, to be held in partnership with FAO-Türkiye, the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, the General Directorate of Agricultural Research and Policies and the Directorate of Field Crops Research Institute, is to discuss the potential and future of millets in agriculture and food from a technical perspective, involving technical experts and academics. The goal of the event is to elevate millets to their rightful place on our tables, enhance understanding of their nutritional value and explore new potential uses. This initiative seeks to introduce millets, showcase their potential as an alternative grain group, emphasize their gastronomic qualities, and raise awareness about their importance for food security and combating climate change.