Date: 25 Apr, 2021
The Arab Authority for Agricultural Investment and Development (AAAID) commends the initiative of the United Arab Emirates launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai during the Leaders’ Summit on Climate that was organized by the United States of America, remotely, on 23 April 2021. The event aimed to support research, development and innovation in the agricultural sector and food systems over the next five years in order to reduce the repercussions of climate change and adapt to it.
His Excellency H.E Mohammed bin Obaid Al Mazrooei, President of AAAID, stated his great pride in the initiative of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum regarding agricultural innovation in climate change, H.E also affirmed that AAAID highly values the initiative and confirms its support and encouragement to achieve the goals it seeks. A number of developed countries have announced their accession and support, such as the United States of America, Britain, Denmark, among others. Further indicating that the Arab Authority is the only joint Arab financial institution that has been working in the field of investment and agricultural development for 44 years and works directly in rural areas with small farmers and producers in the Arab countries. This is due to the belief that the effects of climate change are destructive for the entire planet, but it is often more destructive for the rural population in the Arab countries.
The use of modern technologies has led farmers to increase production and productivity, and this was demonstrated by changing the agricultural pattern from traditional to modern, the ability to optimally employ resources related to the agricultural sector such as land, water and others. As well as the use of modern technologies to support farmers, enhance their capabilities and competences, and thus expand the area of arable land and increase production quantitatively and qualitatively. This was done in a systematic manner and according to thoughtful financing plans and programs.
In the current stage, AAAID is seeking to develop a strategy for agricultural innovation, which will be based on studies and research and is inspired by the initiative of the United Arab Emirates through cooperation and coordination with the public and private sectors in the same field. The basis of the initiative will be reliance on innovation, research and development in all aspects of the agricultural sector and food production. As well as the adoption of modern technologies and innovative practices in AAAID’s projects and investment programs, which will be expanded as AAAID contributes in 55 companies and agricultural projects distributed throughout the Arab world. The initiative comes in line with its aspiration to increase its projects and programs in the rest of the Arab countries, targeting more geographical and sectoral diversity in preparation for promoting and achieving Arab food security. This is in cooperation with Arab countries in particular, and other countries and international organizations to reach the goals sought to achieve the contentment and well-being of the Arab and global population.
