Astana, Kazakhstan – 6 April 2026 - The Islamic Organisation for Food Security (IOFS) virtually convened the 16th Session of its Executive Board to particularly review progress and advance preparations for the upcoming 7th Session of the IOFS General Assembly, to be hosted by the Republic of Kazakhstan on 13-14 May 2026 in an online format.
The session opened with a recitation from the Holy Quran, followed by the adoption of the agenda and work programme. In his welcoming remarks, the Chairman of the Executive Board, Mr. Hamad H. Al-Hajri (State of Qatar), expressed appreciation to his predecessor, Dr. Masoud Al-Marri, for his dedicated service and contributions, and underscored the importance of continued coordination among Member States to advance shared food security priorities.
In his statement to the solemn gathering, the Director General, Ambassador Berik Aryn also conveyed his gratitude to Dr. Al-Marri and and outlined recent developments across the Organisation’s activities, reaffirming IOFS’s commitment to advancing its mission and vision within the OIC geography.
The meeting was attended by distinguished Board Members, including the Honorary Chairman, Eng. Abdulaziz A. Alhowaish (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia); Mr. Alibek Bakayev, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Kazakhstan (permanent member); Mr. Alam Zeb Khan (Islamic Republic of Pakistan); Mr. Mohammed Saeed Sultan Al Nuaimi (United Arab Emirates); Mr. Musa M. Humma (Republic of The Gambia); Ms. Nigina Anvar (Republic of Tajikistan); and Mr. Maina Hamadou (Republic of Cameroon).
During the session, the Executive Board reviewed preparations for the 7th Session of the IOFS General Assembly, including the draft Resolutions to be considered and adopted by the Member States. Board Members also expressed their support to the Republic of Kazakhstan in assuming the role of incoming Chair of the General Assembly and conveyed their confidence in the successful conduct of the meeting, with a view to advancing IOFS priority areas and delivering tangible outcomes.
The session concluded with the adoption of the report and closing remarks, reaffirming the shared commitment of IOFS and its Member States to advancing sustainable agriculture, strengthening water management, and enhancing food security across the OIC region.
