In their discussions, the two officials explored ways of stepping up Argentina’s technical assistance and technology and knowledge transfer activities, with IICA serving as a bridge to other sub-regions in the continent whose levels of food insecurity are a cause for concern.

They highlighted the fact that Argentina, as a major food producer, has a particularly important stock of agricultural technology and knowhow that is available to international partners and is already being shared with other countries in the region.

The remarks were made during a Roundtable Discussion about the role of farmers and rural communities in the sustainability of agri-food systems.

The initiative is intended to encourage secondary school students to continue their education and to facilitate social inclusion of young people in the post-pandemic period by promoting the rights of the youth most affected by the challenges of virtual education.

Under a Memorandum of Understanding signed by Felipe Solá, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Trade and Worship of the Republic of Argentina, and Manuel Otero, Director General of IICA, a Triangular and South-South Cooperation Program will be established, prioritizing the countries of Central America and the Caribbean.

The “Sustainable Agri-Food Systems” seminar was organized to mark Mercosur’s 30th anniversary and highlighted the central role of its member countries in addressing the issue of global food security and nutrition. The body is currently chaired by Argentina.