Secretary-General, in Message to Agriculture Forum, Cites Food Chain as ‘Perfect Example of How People’s Fates Are Linked’

Following is the text of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon’s video message to the opening of the ninth Forum for the Future of Agriculture, in Brussels today:

I am pleased to greet all participants at this important Forum.  Sustainable agriculture will help us realize Agenda 2030, our universal vision for a better future.

The 17 Sustainable Development Goals are a declaration of interdependence.  The food chain is a perfect example of how people’s fates are linked in this globalized world.

We can only end hunger if we change how we grow, process, distribute and consume food.  We also have to better manage our natural resources, land and water.  And we have to preserve the world’s rich biodiversity.

True progress demands new food systems that focus on health, protect the environment, promote social justice, empower women and advance development in communities.  These food systems should give opportunities to young people and support smallholder farmers.

Your Forum can bring us closer to realizing Agenda 2030.  I urge you to confront hard questions and come up with solutions.  Thank you for your leadership and commitment.