Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Eng. Abdulrahman Alfadley emphasized the critical role of smallholder and indigenous communities in ensuring a sustainable food system. During a recent G20 Agriculture Ministers' Meeting held in Brazil, Alfadley highlighted the need to provide farmers with needed resources and support, and emphasized the need to integrate fisheries and aquaculture in value chains. Alfadley stated: "We recognize the invaluable contributions of smallholders. We can boost their productivity and strengthen rural communities by empowering them with financing, agricultural extension services, and essential inputs." In this regard, he said that Saudi Arabia has launched the flagship Sustainable Agricultural Rural Development Program to empower smallholders and rural communities. The program focuses on building the capacity of smallholders and family farms, which helps them add value with their produce and rural activities. The program helps farmers increase their production. In 20 23, the program positively impacted more than 120,000 beneficiaries. Alfadely stressed that the fisheries sector in Saudi Arabia plays a vital role in reaching sustainable agricultural development, creating income and contributing significantly to food security. He said: "Recognizing its importance, we are working to transform the aquaculture sector by attracting investments and increasing local production. We have already achieved over 190,000 tons of fisheries and aquaculture, meeting around 60% of our local consumption needs." The minister pointed out that many regions around the world are still suffering from the impact of drought. He also highlighted the UN Convention to Combat Desertification as the world's foremost platform to discuss contemporary challenges and plan a sustainable future. Alfadely extended an invitation to attendees to join COP16 in December in Riyadh. Source: Saudi Press Agency