Istanbul, February 22 – Turkish Minister of Agriculture and Forestry, İbrahim Yumaklı, announced that Istanbul is set to host the International Water Forum this year, followed by the 20th World Water Congress next year. This move underscores Turkey’s pivotal role in global agricultural diplomacy and its commitment to addressing critical issues such as water and food waste.
Minister Yumaklı Addresses Farmers at Iftar Program
Speaking at an iftar program for farmers at the Haliç Congress Center, attended by President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, Minister Yumaklı extended his Ramadan greetings to all farmers. He lauded them as the ‘unseen but indispensable heroes’ of Turkey, acknowledging their unwavering dedication to production despite challenging weather conditions.
“You have shown this heroism in the hottest summer days, in the harshest winter conditions, in rain and mud, by not giving up on production and rushing to your fields and barns,” Yumaklı stated, highlighting the farmers’ tireless efforts.
President Erdoğan’s Message to Farmers
Yumaklı further elaborated on the farmers’ crucial role, stating, “You are the ones who see every seed that falls into the soil as a signature for the future of this nation. You are the ones who have labor, patience, and gratitude in every bite that comes to the tables. While working for the livelihood of your family and children, you also contributed to the livelihood of 85 million people. Because you know best that a handful of wheat, a drop of milk, a crate of vegetables is not just a product, but a matter of independence. We are glad you exist, we are glad you are devoted to this land.”
Turkey’s Achievements in Agriculture and Global Diplomacy
Under the patronage of President Erdoğan and with the support of the state and the perseverance of producers, Turkey currently ranks first in Europe and seventh in the world in agricultural output. Yumaklı emphasized that these achievements are not sufficient, and Turkey aims to elevate its potential further through continued hard work and collaboration with farmers.
The Minister outlined ongoing initiatives, including production planning in crop production and animal husbandry, rural development support, new projects, organized agricultural zones, and water and irrigation investments. These efforts are aimed at fostering a new era of growth in agriculture by actively involving youth and women in production.
“Turkey continues to achieve success in all fields. From agriculture to energy, from health to education, from defense industry to foreign policy, the point we have reached is evident. Turkey has taken its place as a global actor beyond its region. This is not only valid in politics and economy. Today, we are also achieving significant work in agricultural diplomacy,” Yumaklı added.
Istanbul: A Hub for Water Diplomacy
Yumaklı reiterated Turkey’s position as a policy-maker in various areas, especially concerning water and food waste. He noted that the ‘Water Efficiency Campaign’ and the ‘Zero Waste Movement’ are now on the global agenda, not just Turkey’s.
“Istanbul will host the International Water Forum this year, and the 20th World Water Congress next year. These are the biggest indicators that Turkey, which is strong in agriculture, is also an actor in agricultural diplomacy,” Yumaklı concluded, affirming Istanbul’s growing importance as a center for international discussions on water management.
Source: https://www.trthaber.com/haber/gundem/bakan-yumakli-istanbul-bu-yil-uluslararasi-su-forumuna-ev-sahipligi-yapacak-935148.html
