Dr Maliki speaks about Singapore's agricultural landscape in Rome

SINGAPORE - Minister of State for National Development and Defence Dr Mohamad Maliki Bin Osman has shared Singapore's experience in managing an evolving agricultural landscape at the 39th Session of the Food & Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) Conference in Rome.

He joins other world leaders in the discussion of FAO's programme and budget for the next two years.

At the conference, Dr Maliki said that local agriculture remains an important pillar of our food security. Hence, the Government would continue to support the industry through a range of assistance and development schemes.

While in Rome, Dr Maliki also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Director-General of the FAO, Dr Jose Graziano da Silva, on technical co-operation with the FAO on behalf of Singapore.

The MOU will enable more opportunities for collaboration between the both parties in areas such as food security and nutrition, food safety, street food management, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, sustainable forestry, and animal and plant health.

Dr Maliki said: "We look forward to strengthening co-operation with FAO on food security as well as in related areas such as food safety, and animal and plant health. This is part of our continuing effort to boost Singapore's food security, and demonstrates our commitment to contribute advance food security globally, particularly through R&D and technology development."

The FAO leads international efforts to alleviate hunger and poverty by promoting agricultural development, improved nutrition and the pursuit of food security. Singapore has been a member of the FAO since June 2013.

FAO's Director-General, Dr Jose Graziano da Silva said: "I am confident that this agreement will further strengthen regional and global exchanges in the realm of food and agriculture, and it represents a major step for Singapore and FAO in the global development arena. We look forward to a growing partnership."

Dr Maliki is accompanied by officials from the Ministry of National Development and the Agri-Food and Veterinary Authority of Singapore.

ljessica@sph.com.sg