A two-day conference of developing countries' alliance or D-8 ministerial level is starting in Dhaka on Wednesday (January 12) organized by the Ministry of Agriculture. Due to Corona, the 7th D-8 Conference on Agriculture and Food Security will be held virtually. The main topic of discussion at this year's meeting is Agriculture and Food Security: Development of Climate Smart Agriculture.
Bangladesh is now the President of D-8 Forum. That is why this conference is important as part of South-South cooperation. Bangladesh is also currently the President of the Climate Vulnerable Forum (CVF). The meeting will discuss the promotion of Climate Smart Agriculture, which is why the meeting is important.
On Tuesday (January 11) Agriculture Minister and Awami League presidium member Dr. Abdur Razzak said this in an online press briefing. Agriculture Secretary Sayadul Islam and Additional Secretary Ruhul Amin Talukder were also present at the briefing.
The minister said the high-level conference would be attended by senior officials including the agriculture and food ministers and secretaries of the alliance member countries: Bangladesh, Egypt, Indonesia, Malaysia, Iran, Nigeria, Pakistan and Turkey. In addition, representatives of various international organizations including IDB, FAO, IFAD and IRRI will also participate.
The Minister further said that the main topic of discussion at this year's conference is: Agriculture and Food Security, Development of Climate Smart Agriculture. In this case, important issues for the allied countries will be discussed. Cooperation in various areas including agricultural production and productivity enhancement, joint agricultural research, mechanization, agro-processing, blue economy, fertilizer production, seeds, animal feed, value chain development, training and capacity building will be highlighted.