Cooperation memorandum was signed between the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and Agrarco LLC.

The project examines the approach to obtaining sustainable bioenergy in hazelnuts along the value chain, and the causes of aflatoxin during production and processing. Within the framework of the cooperation, activities are planned to apply best practices in these processes and increase the capacity of farmers engaged in this field.

The event was attended by the management and specialists of FAO, Agrarco LLC, Ministry of Agriculture, the Agrarian Credit and Development Agency, the Agrarian Services Agency, as well as representatives of other agencies.

Head of FAO Azerbaijan office Ms. Melek Cakmak and Agrarco CEO Mr. Javid Kazimov stressed the importance of the cooperation memorandim during the opening ceremony, then the Chairman of the Agrarian Credit and Development Agency Seymur Movlayev and the National Coordinator of the project Surkhay Novruzov spoke.

"As FAO, we welcome the establishment of strategic partnerships between the private sector and public authorities in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. In particular, the creation of opportunities for cooperation with the private sector contributes to the healthy and sustainable diversification of food systems and food security, said Ms. Melek Cakmak in his speech.

According to the cooperation memorandum, farmers involved in the hazelnut production process will be involved in various activities related to the application of best practices during the project implementation cycle. Agrarco LLC will provide the existing gardens and equipment for initial training of farmers. Based on the work plans, it is planned to assess the bioenergy potential of the hazelnut value chain, assess the potential for biomass, final energy consumption, study and coordinate activities related to the value chain logistics for the mobilization of waste and greenhouse gases. Additionally, the parties will also participate in the process of assessing farmers' potential for sustainable bioenergy options in the hazelnut value chain, as well as sustainable hazelnut product management, post-harvest work, processing and safety.

It was noted at the event that the principles of international cooperation in the field of human rights and the protection of the environment in-line with the principles of the United Nations Global Compact, are reflected in the cooperation memorandum.