ALKHOBAR — High-level agricultural scientists from the G20 countries, invited guest countries, and international organizations attended the 9th Meeting of Agricultural Chief Scientists (MACS) of the G20 to adopt a communiqué that will be delivered to the ministers of agriculture.

Delegates attending the meeting expressed their intention to promote cooperation in pursuit of sustainable agricultural productivity and global food security.

The meeting focused on global issues such as sustainable agriculture development in drylands, promoting agricultural productivity through innovative cutting-edge technologies, and the Water, Energy and Food nexus.

Delegates recognized the importance of agriculture in drylands for the livelihoods and global food security and encouraged the ministers to agree on a way forward to develop sustainable agriculture opportunities in drylands.

Also, the attendees stressed the importance of science for developing affordable and cutting-edge agricultural technologies in order to address global food security and improve agri-food systems.

Regarding the use of technology in the agricultural field, they emphasized the need for developing and implementing new agricultural technologies in partnership with farmers and the need for public sector policy and investment to ensure equitable dissemination and use of new agricultural technologies.

Aware of the global demands on water and energy to meet food production needs, the high-level group agreed on approaching a better understanding of the interdependence of Water, Energy and Food Nexus as it is critical for developing policies that enable resource use efficiency, improve livelihoods, ensure food security and optimize sustainable economic benefits. — SG