IOFS and Crop Trust Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Strengthen Food Security Cooperation

Astana, Kazakhstan - 17 February 2026 — The Islamic Organisation for Food Security (IOFS) and the Global Crop Diversity Trust (Crop Trust) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen cooperation on food security, agricultural sustainability, and the conservation of crop diversity.

The MoU was signed by H.E. Ambassador Berik Aryn, Director General of IOFS, and Dr. Stefan Schmitz, Executive Director of the Crop Trust, marking an important step toward enhanced collaboration between the two international organizations.

Speaking on the occasion, H.E. Ambassador Berik Aryn, Director General of IOFS stated, “For IOFS Member States, strengthening crop diversity is not only a scientific priority, but a strategic imperative for food sovereignty and long-term resilience. This MoU creates a practical platform for cooperation, enabling IOFS countries to access global expertise, enhance policy dialogue, and mobilize coordinated action in support of sustainable food systems. Through this partnership, we reinforce our shared responsibility to ensure that agricultural development remains both resilient and inclusive.”

The agreement establishes a framework for joint activities focused on supporting IOFS Member States through knowledge exchange, capacity-building initiatives, and the development of cooperative projects related to agriculture and food systems. The partnership also seeks to promote sustainable approaches that contribute to agricultural resilience and long-term food security.

“This partnership will strengthen the conservation, characterization, and use of crop diversity across IOFS countries. We will support national genebanks, build technical capacity for high-quality conservation in genebanks, and identify opportunities for long-term, sustainable support. Our collective expertise can protect crop diversity and strengthen food security in the face of challenge and uncertainty,” said Dr. Stefan Schmitz.

Through this cooperation, IOFS and the Crop Trust reaffirm their shared commitment to address global food security challenges by fostering partnerships, strengthening institutional capacities, and supporting sustainable agricultural development at regional and international levels.