TEHRAN – Governments must design science-based policies, encourage innovation, and invest in water management, FAO representative a.i. Yubak Dhoj GC said in a message to the World Food Day Conference.

Held on 16 October, the event was organized by the Food and Drug Administration of Iran to mark the globally important occasion of World Food Day 2023 with a theme of "Water is life, water is food. Leave no one behind”.

Despite 71% of the Earth's surface being covered by water, only 2.5% of this is freshwater suitable for agriculture, GC said in his speech delivered by his Officer in Charge Nazi Tavakoli.

He highlighted that global water resources are under considerable stress due to factors such as population growth, urbanization, economic development, and the looming threat of climate change.

Emphasizing a concerning trend, he noted that over the past few decades, freshwater resources per person have declined by 20%. Of global freshwater withdrawals, 72% are attributed to agriculture, pointing to the crucial connection between water and food.

He further highlighted the need for collective action, urging governments to design science-based policies, promote innovation, and invest in water management.

The FAO stands committed to assisting governments and stakeholders in the sustainable management of groundwater through various tools and technologies, he said.

GC also commended Iran's efforts to address food and nutrition security, particularly the national knowledge-based document on food security, adding that Iran’s national knowledge-based document on food security is a significant step and aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In conclusion, GC urged wise management of the precious resource of water to safeguard food systems, our planet, and the well-being of all. He called for global collaboration to ensure a more sustainable future.