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A strategic opportunity to strengthen cooperation among Mediterranean countries on food security and sustainable development
The International Centre for Advanced Mediterranean Agronomic Studies (CIHEAM), a long-standing partner of the International Olive Council (IOC), invited the IOC’s Executive Director, Jaime Lillo, and Deputy Executive Director, Abderraouf Laajimi, to participate in the 12th meeting of agriculture ministers from CIHEAM Member States on 25 October 2024 in Rabat, Morocco.
This high-level meeting, titled “The Mediterranean Approach to Food Sovereignty: Concerns and Impacts on Sustainable Agri-Food Systems,” aligns with CIHEAM’s ongoing policy dialogues since its creation in 1962. The event was hosted by H.E. Mr Ahmed Bouari, the new Minister of Agriculture, Maritime Fisheries, Rural Development, Water and Forests of the Kingdom of Morocco; CIHEAM Board President, Frida Krifca; and Secretary General Teodoro Miano.
The IOC’s participation in this gathering of agriculture ministers and delegations from CIHEAM’s 13 member countries, alongside representatives of intergovernmental and international organisations, provided a platform to strengthen cooperation with Mediterranean countries on issues of food security and sustainable development. As a key player in promoting olive cultivation, the IOC is a vital partner, bringing expertise on the olive tree’s critical role in Mediterranean agriculture.
During the session dedicated to international organisations, Jaime Lillo highlighted the importance of increased international collaboration to boost agricultural production while respecting environmental concerns. IOC representatives made valuable connections with organisations committed to promoting sustainable agriculture and Mediterranean cooperation, especially those focusing on research, development, innovation, food security, and current agricultural challenges.
CIHEAM is an intergovernmental organisation established by Mediterranean countries and European institutions to promote regional cooperation in agriculture, food, and rural development. CIHEAM’s 13 member countries (Albania, Algeria, Egypt, France, Greece, Italy, Lebanon, Malta, Morocco, Portugal, Spain, Tunisia, and Türkiye)—which are also members of the IOC—collaborate on issues related to agriculture, fisheries, food security, and rural development across the Mediterranean. CIHEAM and the IOC share common goals in sustainable development and the promotion of the Mediterranean diet, with olive oil as a central element. Through joint agreements, they work to encourage sustainable agricultural practices and support scientific research in these areas.
