Damascus, FAO discuss support for damaged agricultural areas
QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – Syria’s Minister of Agriculture, Basel al-Suwaidan, discussed with Acting Representative of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Syria, Piero Tommaso Berri, and his accompanying delegation, mechanisms to enhance cooperation and follow up on programs and projects implemented by the organization across Syria.
During a meeting hosted by the Ministry of Agriculture in Damascus, al-Suwaidan praised FAO’s efforts in supporting the agricultural sector over recent years, particularly through projects aimed at improving livelihoods for farmers and families living in rural areas.
The minister stressed the importance of expanding the developmental villages project to include areas affected during recent years, saying such efforts would contribute to rehabilitation initiatives and encourage residents to return. He also called for increased support for farmers seeking to resume agricultural activities and for strengthening assistance programs for livestock breeders, particularly in eastern governorates.
Al-Suwaidan further urged greater coordination with international bodies and organizations to mitigate the impact of flooding in Deir ez-Zor and Raqqa governorates caused by rising water levels in the Euphrates River. He said this could be achieved through the provision of emergency assistance and the implementation of service and development projects aimed at compensating affected communities.
The minister also noted plans to revive the “Agropolis” project in the al-Ghab region through a new approach designed to meet local development needs and respond to the priorities of residents.
For his part, Berri reaffirmed FAO’s readiness to continue cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture in support of plans to develop the agricultural sector and accelerate its recovery. He said the organization continues to implement programs focused on supporting rural families, strengthening food security, improving agricultural production, and developing livestock resources in different parts of Syria.