FAO supports discussions on the role of private sector in development of food and agriculture in Azerbaijan

The event has brought together 150 participants representing the government agencies, international organisations, private sector and civil society.

The workshop aims at raising awareness on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development among the private sector and facilitating a discussion between government and private sector on their role and involvement in SDG implementation in Azerbaijan.

Participants will also exchange knowledge and best practices from the region on the integration of SDGs in private sector business models and sustainable reporting, as well as ways to mobilize national private sector engagement in areas of joint interest with a specific focus on climate change and nationally-determined contributions.

Agriculture plays a vital role in catalysing growth and sustainable development in Azerbaijan, especially in rural areas, employing a large segment of the population. It is the third largest sector in the country after the oil industry and construction. The food sector also takes a significant segment of the non-oil industry providing 32% from total production.

FAO supports efforts of the Government of Azerbaijan in ensuring sustainable food and agriculture, increasing the productivity of food and agricultural production systems and diversifying agricultural production, which also leads to enhanced food security in the country.

The workshop is organised as part of the project on ‘mobilizing involvement and investment of the private sector in implementing SDGs in food and agriculture in Azerbaijan’.