Doha, 3 October 2023 – The 6th General Assembly of the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) marked a significant moment in the global quest for food security and agricultural development. This event, held in Doha, Qatar, brought together high-level officials and delegates from more than 40 Member States, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to addressing critical issues in the realm of food security. To note, four new Member States were welcomed, with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, the Republic of Yemen, the Republic of Gabon, and the Republic of Iraq that signed the Statute of the Islamic Organization for Food Security during the 9th OIC Ministerial Conference on Food Security and Agricultural Development on 02 October 2023.
The 6th General Assembly of the IOFS was inaugurated with an address by the outgoing Chairman, HE. Mr. Abdel Monem Belati, the Minister of Agriculture, Hydraulics, and Maritime Fisheries of the Republic of Tunisia. In his speech, he highlighted the achievements of the IOFS during his tenure, setting a powerful tone for the discussions that would follow. Next, the Republic of Tunisia gracefully passed the Chairmanship of the IOFS to the State of Qatar. HE. Dr. Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Subaie, the Minister of Municipality of the State of Qatar, shared his vision for the organization’s future, emphasizing the importance of collective efforts in ensuring the IOFS’s continued success. Assistant Secretary General for Economic Affairs HE Dr. Ahmad Kawesa Sengendo, representing the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, further underscored the significance of unity and collaboration among Member States in his address, calling for unwavering support for the IOFS’s noble mission.
The General Assembly adopted 12 Resolutions, which stand as a testament to to the organization’s shared commitment to progress and dedication to make an impact on the global stage in the pursuit of food security. In accordance with the adopted resolutions, Ambassador Askar Mussinov was elected as the incoming Director General of the IOFS, with his term set to commence on January 1, 2024. The General Assembly also declared a grant of $2 million from Qatar to IOFS as a contribution to strengthening the programs of the Organization.
In closing, the IOFS announced that the 7th General Assembly will take place in 2024 in Astana, Kazakhstan. The delegation of the Republic of Kazakhstan attended the event in Doha headed by the Deputy Prime Minister HE Mr. Serik Zhumagarin and the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Alibek Bakayev. The General Assembly as the highest ranking decision body of the IOFS, continues to stand as a platform for Member States to come together to address pressing issues relation to food security, foster cooperation and set a collective vision for a more sustainable and food-secure future.
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