Arab Parliament adopts Jordan’s proposal to establish regional food security centre in Kingdom

AMMAN — The Arab Parliament on Saturday adopted a proposal put forward by Lower House Speaker Ahmad Safadi to establish a regional food security centre in Jordan, a convergence within Africa, Asia and Europe.

Based on an idea presented by His Majesty King Abdullah, the proposal was made during the 5th conference of the Arab Parliament, held at the headquarters of the Arab League in Cairo, with the presence of Jordanian Ambassador Amjad Adaileh and members of the Jordanian parliamentary delegation.

Jordan is well-positioned to facilitate and coordinate Arab-international work, Safadi said, noting that the centre will speed up and enhance the global response to food crises and disasters.

The proposal has received UN support and approval, following the Kingdom's adoption of the new national strategy for food security, which has been described as a "pioneering step" towards ensuring sustainable food systems, he said. 

Safadi added that King Abdullah has placed a strong emphasis on food security, which is a critical challenge that transcends national borders and affects the entire world. 

The first steps towards addressing these difficulties, according to His Majesty's vision, involve establishing effective regional cooperation and building multi-party partnerships with Arab countries, he noted.

He also expressed thanks for the conference's Preparatory Committee for approving two proposals —presented by Ghazi Al Thneibat, a member of the Jordanian parliamentary delegation— related to addressing food security challenges caused by displacement and disasters, such as the earthquake in Syria, which requires action to ensure the provision of emergency food supplies.