New york: The SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) and the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) have entered into a significant Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen their collaboration in food and agricultural research, policy analysis, and capacity building across South Asia. The agreement, signed by Md Golam Sarwar, Secretary General of SAARC, and Dr Johan Swinnen, Director General of IFPRI, took place during the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, this MoU follows comprehensive rounds of review and approvals from SAARC member states and showcases a firm commitment by both institutions to address the pressing agricultural and food system challenges in the region. Md Golam Sarwar emphasized the importance of building on previous collaborations and leveraging the strengths of SAC and IFPRI to deliver tangible benefits to farmers and communities. He noted that such partnerships are crucial for transforming innovative ideas into actionable solutions that can also enhance South-South and Triangular cooperation.
Dr Johan Swinnen highlighted the MoU’s significance, noting that the SAC-IFPRI partnership comes at a crucial time and aims to bolster policy and technology solutions throughout South Asia. The agreement outlines a comprehensive framework for cooperation in areas such as resilient and inclusive markets, sustainable food production, nutrition-sensitive food systems, food safety, and governance. Both organizations will engage in joint research, policy analysis, capacity building, and policy dialogue.
The collaboration extends to organizing projects, workshops, regional programs, and the preparation of joint work plans. Publications resulting from this partnership may be issued jointly or separately, with both entities committed to enhancing the accessibility of their research outputs.
Moreover, the MoU includes initiatives on climate change adaptation, consultancy, training, and events focused on food and agriculture. A Joint Advisory Committee, co-chaired by the SAC Director and IFPRI’s Director for South Asia, will guide the collaboration, meeting annually to identify research themes and provide policy advice.
The agreement is set for a three-year term, with the potential for renewal upon mutual agreement and the approval of SAARC member states.