Brasilia – The Iranian Minister of Agriculture described the BRICS group of nations as a “significant force in the global landscape, making substantial contributions to economic cooperation and global food security.”

 

 

Gholamreza Nouri made the remarks on Thursday addressing the 15th BRICS agriculture ministers' meeting in Brazil. 

 

 

What follows is the full text of the Minister’s speech at the meeting in Brasilia: 

 

 

 

Mr. Chairman,

His Excellency Mr. Carlos Favaro,

Honourable Ministers,

Distinguished Delegates,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

It is an honor and pleasure for me to address this important meeting. I would like to thank the Federative Republic of Brazil for hosting the BRICS Agriculture Ministers' Meeting at this beautiful city of Brasilia. We have gathered here today to confer on a shared vision: a sustainable future for agriculture in BRICS.

Agriculture is a cornerstone of sustainable development for all our member countries. It is the foundation of livelihoods, food security, and economic progress. Recognizing this vital role, we need to prioritize collaborative policies and concrete actions that strengthen our agricultural sectors, capitalizing on capacities made available under the auspices of BRICS. This Summit represents a crucial step towards realizing our common goals and achieving lasting food security.

 

Mr. Chairman

The BRICS Group has emerged as a significant force in the global landscape, making substantial contributions to economic cooperation and global food security. BRICS has fostered trust among members and enhanced its global influence. Our nations collectively represent a significant portion of global GDP and trade, and we are actively working to reduce trade barriers and promote greater economic integration within the BRICS. In agriculture, BRICS economic and trade partnerships can facilitate technology transfer, promote sustainable production practices, and enhance regional and global cooperation.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Now, more than ever, we must recognize research institutions and innovation centers as central to our collective endeavors. Through collaborative research and development, and the exchange of expertise, we can empower our farmers to adopt sustainable agricultural practices. Hence I would like to renew the proposal of the Islamic Republic of Iran to establish the BRICS Union of Agriculture Research Institutions and the BRICS Union of Vaccine Institutes. 

 The Islamic Republic of Iran supports the development of fair agriculture trade among member countries as a key to strengthening food security and economic growth. To this end, I would like to propose a close collaboration for designing and implementation of a dynamic mechanism for development of agricultural trade and investment among BRICS members. 

 

Excellencies,

Climate change poses a significant challenge to agriculture worldwide. The changing rainfall patterns, increased droughts, and dwindling water resources directly impact agricultural productivity and food security. We must invest in environmentally sound technologies, develop climate-smart agricultural systems, and expand renewable energy initiatives. 

Effective fisheries management is also crucial. The Islamic Republic of Iran welcomes the establishment of the Fisheries Subgroup within the BRICS Working Group on Agriculture and offers its full support, including the sharing of our experiences and active participation in relevant discussions.

Furthermore, artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies will be instrumental in boosting productivity and mitigating negative climate impacts.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In closing, I once again thank Brazil for hosting this important meeting. I reaffirm the Islamic Republic of Iran’s strong commitment to expanding cooperation and unity among BRICS member countries. 

Let us, with shared dedication and effective collaboration, build a prosperous, sustainable, and just future for agriculture and the well-being of our people.

 thank you, sir