International Dates Council Concludes Session Emphasizing Sector’s Vital Role in Economic and Social Development, Environmental Protection, and Food Security
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – December 7, 2023 – The International Dates Council has concluded its recent session with a powerful final statement underscoring the critical importance of the dates sector in driving economic and social development, safeguarding the environment, and enhancing global food security. The proceedings, hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA), highlighted the significant potential of dates, not only as a staple food but also as a catalyst for sustainable growth and community well-being.
The final communiqué from the Council’s deliberations served as a resounding affirmation of the strategic value of the dates industry. It emphasized that by fostering innovation, promoting best practices, and encouraging international cooperation, the sector can significantly contribute to achieving national and global developmental objectives. This includes creating employment opportunities, supporting rural economies, and empowering agricultural communities, particularly women and youth, who play a pivotal role in date cultivation and processing.
A key focus of the discussions revolved around the environmental benefits associated with date palm cultivation. The Council recognized the resilience of date palms in arid and semi-arid regions, their ability to thrive with minimal water resources, and their contribution to combating desertification. The statement further stressed the importance of adopting sustainable agricultural practices to preserve these valuable ecosystems and ensure the long-term viability of the sector. This includes advocating for water-efficient irrigation techniques, organic farming methods, and the responsible management of land resources.
Furthermore, the International Dates Council explicitly linked the growth and strengthening of the dates sector to the enhancement of food security. Dates are a nutrient-rich food source, providing essential vitamins, minerals, and energy. By increasing production, improving quality, and ensuring wider accessibility, the Council aims to bolster food availability and affordability, especially in regions where dates are a traditional and vital component of the diet. The focus on improving post-harvest technologies and supply chain efficiency was also a significant aspect of the session, aiming to reduce losses and maximize the benefits derived from this important crop.
The Council’s final statement also called for increased collaboration among member states, research institutions, and the private sector to address existing challenges and unlock the full potential of the dates industry. This includes investing in research and development to improve crop yields, disease resistance, and product diversification, as well as facilitating market access and promoting the global consumption of dates and date-derived products.
The Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture reiterated its commitment to supporting the International Dates Council and its objectives. MEWA recognizes the strategic importance of the dates sector to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, which is a leading producer and exporter of dates. The Ministry is dedicated to working with its partners to implement the recommendations of the Council, foster innovation, and ensure the sustainable growth of this vital agricultural industry for the benefit of all.
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mewa.gov.sa published ‘البيان الختامي للمجلس الدولي للتمور يؤكد على أهمية القطاع في تحقيق التنمية الاقتصادية والاجتماعية وحماية البيئة وتحسين مستوى الأمن الغذائي’ at 2023-12-07 00:00. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.