FAO and SICA Sign Agreement to Transform Agri-Food Systems in Dry Corridor Countries

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the Central American Integration System (SICA) signed an unprecedented Framework Cooperation Agreement whose main objective is to jointly support the transformation of agri-food systems in the countries of the dry corridor.  According to a release, this agreement enhances collaboration and joint efforts between FAO and SICA to promote economic, social, environmental, and cultural determinants of food and nutritional security in SICA member countries. It also seeks to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experience on issues such as resilient agriculture, climate change, and sustainable management of natural resources (including water, land, forests, and biodiversity).  FAO and various SICA bodies work in a coordinated manner to ensure an agricultural sector that not only meets food production needs but also contributes to restoring ecosystem integrity. Together, they develop policies prioritizing forest integrity and implementing solutions for climate change adaptation and mitigation, thus promoting sustainable economic development while ensuring the conservation of carbon stocks and biodiversity. These joint efforts are vital steps to reduce climate vulnerability in the SICA region.  The FAO-SICA agreement serves as a model for regional cooperation and demonstrates the collective strength and commitment of the participating organizations to address the complex challenges facing the agricultural sector and the environment in the SICA region.