Iran is looking for regional partnerships to strengthen food security: Deputy Foreign Minister Tehran, Irana -. Iran is ready to expand scientific cooperation, trade and investments in agriculture with countries in the region and beyond, says Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs, Kazem Garibabadi, who describes agricultural diplomacy as a means of ensuring a sustainable food supply. Speaking at a World Food Day conference on Monday, Gribabadi said food security requires access to sufficient, safe and affordable food. Geopolitical crises, wars, climate change, drought, resource constraints and supply chain disruptions have threatened millions of people.
Agriculture, according to him, is not only an economic sector but a pillar of national security, independence, development and stability. Cooperation in the field could build trust, strengthen international relations and ease tensions.
Gribabadi said Iran's climatic diversity, skilled workforce and research institutions offer a basis for partnerships.
He cited technology transfer, joint research, investment in agricultural infrastructure, efficient use of water and a sustainable supply chain as priority areas. Regional cooperation is needed to tackle water shortages, droughts and dust storms through better water management, low-water farming practices, knowledge sharing and early warning systems.
Gribabadi warned that unilateral wars and sanctions disrupt production and trade, and said food, water and medicine must not become political tools.
He added that Iran is ready to cooperate with interested countries and international organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), to promote food security. He also said that the damage to the agricultural infrastructure during the 12- and 40-day wars did not prevent Iran from maintaining food security.