IOFS Signs MoU with Rice Research Institute to Develop Production in Member States

 

 

Manila, October 18 (QNA) - Chairperson of the Executive Council of Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) Dr. Masoud Jarallah Al Marri signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the International Rice Research Institute in the capital Manila, the Philippines, to develop rice production in member countries.

By signing the MoU, the IOFS aims to enhance and sustain rice production in Islamic countries. This is in pursuit of their primary goal which is achieving food security in the face of challenges such as climate change, rising prices, wars, conflicts, natural disasters, and economic crises.

The most prominent food challenges facing the countries of the organization include the increasing demand for rice as a vital commodity, the expected population growth in the Islamic world to reach 2 billion people by 2050, a 10% decrease in food production due to climate change, the need to increase rice production by 35% by 2050, a one-third decrease in water resources, rising labor and energy costs, and a 1.5% increase in greenhouse gas emissions.

Qatar currently holds the presidency of the Executive Council of the Islamic Organization for Food Security, following its election to this position for a three-year term on October 11, 2022, during the fifth IOFS General Assembly meeting. The election is a recognition of Qatar's significant efforts in supporting and enhancing the food security system in the Islamic countries.

Qatar also presides over the 6th IOFS General Assembly which recently held its meeting on October 3 in Doha. During the assembly, Qatar announced a $ 2 million grant to support the organization's programs and efforts.  (QNA)