From Traditions to Technologies: Uzbekistan’s Vision for Climate-Smart Agriculture Showcased at the World Food Forum in Rome

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — On the sidelines of the World Food Forum, taking place from 13 to 17 October at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Rome, Uzbekistan hosted a side event dedicated to climate-smart agriculture in Central Asia and the country’s contribution to global solutions. The event featured active participation from a youth delegation of students from the University of Tuscia (Italy) representing Uzbekistan at this prestigious international forum.

The World Food Forum is one of FAO’s flagship initiatives, aimed at transforming agrifood systems and addressing global challenges related to food security, sustainability, and climate change. The week-long forum includes dialogues, panel discussions, and innovation labs, bringing together global leaders, experts, representatives of international financial institutions and the private sector, civil society figures, youth, and activists.

The Uzbekistan side event was jointly organized by the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan in Italy, the FAO Country Office in Uzbekistan, and the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Uzbekistan. Similar events highlighting Uzbekistan’s achievements were held during the 2022–2024 editions of the Forum, and this year the organizers once again presented the country’s progress and rich culture at a high level.

Opening remarks were delivered by Minister of Agriculture Ibrokhim Abdurakhmonov, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Europe and Central Asia Viorel Gutu, and Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan Munira Aminova.

The main objective of the event was to highlight Uzbekistan’s agricultural achievements and its contribution to global climate action. Uzbek students shared their experiences and initiatives in combating climate change and advancing sustainable agrifood systems.

Visitors had the opportunity to learn about Uzbekistan’s cultural heritage and its influence on agricultural traditions, discover opportunities available to youth in education and innovation, and appreciate the country’s contribution to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

The side event concluded with a friendly gathering featuring traditional Uzbek plov, symbolizing the country’s hospitality, rich culture, and national identity. As per tradition, the event took place in the cozy “Uzbekistan Lounge” area located at FAO headquarters in Rome.