In the culminating ceremony of the UN Food Systems Summit +2 (UNFSS+2), the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO), QU Dongyu, has emphasized the significance of the stocktaking moment which provides a comprehensive view of the progress made, the existing challenges, and the necessary measures to forge ahead.
Dongyu underlined the urgency to expedite efforts in advancing national pathways toward improved production, nutrition, environmental sustainability, and better livelihoods, with a commitment to inclusivity and leaving no one behind.
He expressed hope that the attendees would glean valuable insights to support their respective countries’ endeavours, considering the mounting complexity of food insecurity, driven by interconnected risks such as climate crises, economic shocks, and ongoing conflicts.
Moreover, Dongyu acknowledged the potential inherent in challenges and underscored the importance of unwavering high-level political commitment to tackle the pressing issues effectively.
During the UNFSS+2 Stocktaking Moment’s official closure, the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, presented a resolute Call-to-Action on behalf of UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
Urging for immediate, large-scale action, she stressed the linkages between bridging the implementation gap and key aspects like financing for development, debt relief, inclusive engagement with non-state actors, and equitable access to science, technology, and innovation.
Mohammed further outlined pivotal priorities for subsequent action, emphasizing the integration of food system strategies into all national policies and the promotion of multi-stakeholder partnerships.
She commended the Stocktaking Moment for reaffirming the potential to elevate ambition and expedite action.
She urged everyone to carry the spirit of this gathering into broader efforts, contributing to the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring food systems work inclusively and sustainably on a daily basis.
The closing ceremony featured the participation of Alvaro Lario, President of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the Executive Director of the World Food Programme.
In unison, the FAO and the UNFSS+2 participants recognized the critical need for swift action to address food insecurity challenges and committed to collaborative efforts for a sustainable future where food systems benefit all.