Azerbaijan was represented at the 4th Europe and Central Asia Food Systems Transformation Meeting, held at the UN Palais des Nations in Geneva, focusing on accelerating national roadmaps and addressing regional challenges.
In her remarks, Leyla Jabbarli-Mitova, Deputy Chair of the Agro Credit and Development Agency, outlined Azerbaijan’s agricultural transformation approach, noting the shift from a traditional model to a modern, data-driven system supported by digitalization and artificial intelligence, improving management efficiency.
She described the country’s agricultural policy as farmer-centered, which focuses on reducing risks, increasing productivity, and ensuring sustainable development, with special emphasis on empowering women and youth. Highlighting impacts of climate change, Leyla Jabbarli-Mitova outlined support for climate-resilient farming through improved irrigation, efficient land use, and measures to combat soil degradation and salinization.
Digital advisory services and early warning systems were highlighted as key tools for assisting farmers manage risks more effectively. Export diversification was underscored as a principal factor in strengthening economic resilience, while the development of fisheries and aquaculture was emphasized as part of a broader strategy for sustainable food security and efficient use of natural resources.
The event featured experience-sharing among countries, alongside thematic sessions on agricultural financing and roundtables dedicated to science, innovation, and evidence-based policymaking. Breakout discussions addressed practical solutions for climate resilience and regional trade. It also provided a regional space to review progress, align priorities, and strengthen coordinated support for food systems transformation toward 2030.
Convened by the UN Food Systems Coordination Hub in collaboration with the UN Issue-Based Coalition on Sustainable Food Systems (IBC-SFS), and supported by several other partners, the meeting brought together governments, UN entities, development partners, civil society, youth networks, Indigenous Peoples’ organizations, research institutions, and the private sector to support dialogue, peer learning, and coordinated action around country-led priorities.
