Ethiopian Ambassador Dr. Jemal Beker Discusses Food Security, UN Summit, and Bilateral Ties with UN Coordinator in Pakistan
Islamabad, Pakistan – Dr. Jemal Beker, Special Envoy and Ambassador of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia to Pakistan, held a high-level meeting with Mr. Mohammed Yahya, the United Nations (TEMED) Coordinator in Pakistan, to discuss Ethiopia’s developmental progress, food security initiatives, and the upcoming UN Food Systems Summit in Addis Ababa.
Key Discussions on Ethiopia’s Progress
The meeting covered a wide range of topics, including Ethiopia’s political, economic, and social developments, as well as its efforts to enhance food security and sustainable agricultural practices. Ambassador Dr. Beker provided a detailed overview of Ethiopia’s achievements in combating food insecurity through drought-resistant farming, increased agricultural productivity, and improved food distribution systems.
He highlighted the Ethiopian government’s commitment to achieving food self-sufficiency, citing successful policies and programs that have strengthened resilience against climate shocks and boosted crop yields in various regions.
Preparations for the UN Food Systems Summit 2025
A major focus of the discussion was the upcoming UN Food Systems Summit +4, scheduled to take place in Addis Ababa in July 2025. Ambassador Dr. Beker emphasized the significance of the summit, which aims to address global food security challenges and promote sustainable food systems.
“Ethiopia is honored to host this critical gathering, which will bring together global leaders, experts, and stakeholders to devise actionable solutions for food security,” said Dr. Beker. He stressed the importance of Pakistan’s participation, given its agricultural expertise and shared challenges in food sustainability.
UN’s Commitment to Support
Mr. Mohammed Yahya commended Ethiopia’s progress in food security and praised its leadership in organizing the summit. He assured full support from the United Nations in ensuring the event’s success, including mobilizing international participation and facilitating Pakistan’s representation.
“The UN recognizes Ethiopia’s efforts in addressing food insecurity and is committed to supporting the summit’s objectives,” said Mr. Yahya. “We will encourage Pakistani experts, policymakers, and stakeholders to actively engage in this vital global dialogue.”
Strengthening Ethiopia-Pakistan Collaboration
The meeting also explored opportunities for enhanced cooperation between Ethiopia and Pakistan in agriculture, trade, and development. Ambassador Dr. Beker reiterated Ethiopia’s interest in deepening ties with Pakistan, particularly in knowledge exchange and investment in agro-based industries.
The discussions underscored Ethiopia’s proactive role in global food security and its commitment to fostering international partnerships. With the UN’s backing, the 2025 Food Systems Summit in Addis Ababa is poised to be a landmark event in shaping sustainable food policies worldwide.
Both parties expressed optimism about future collaborations and agreed to maintain close coordination in the lead-up to the summit.
BY: The Times Union
