Qatar has left no stone unturned in ensuring food security over the years, particularly since the start of the Gulf crisis.

The country worked above and beyond to achieve food security whether through building food storage facilities, growing its own vegetables and fruits in schools, or simply flying in some cows to shore up its local milk production.

With all these efforts, Qatar secured the top rank in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region in the Global Food Security Index for 2019.

On the occasion of World Food Day, which falls on October 16 every year, His Excellency the Minister of Municipality and Environment Abdullah bin Abdulaziz bin Turki al-Subaie has reiterated Qatar's commitment to food security.

Qatar attaches great importance to food security and the development of natural resources to increase production and raise the level of self-sufficiency, HE the Minister said in a speech.

Minister of Municipality and Environment confirmed today that Qatar attaches great importance to food security and the development of natural resources to increase production and raise the level of self-sufficiency. #QNA pic.twitter.com/8UDGf4R5IM

— Qatar News Agency (@QNAEnglish) October 15, 2020

He highlighted that the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME) has developed plans to enhance the production of agricultural items such as poultry, eggs, fish, vegetables, and red meat.

HE the Minister mentioned that Qatar joins several other countries and global organizations to commemorate World Food Day, held on the anniversary of the establishment of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

This year the anniversary is held in exceptional circumstances as the world faces the COVID-19 pandemic, al-Subaie said.

The day is being marked under the slogan, "Grow, Nourish, Sustain Together."

The celebration seeks to bolster public awareness about the significance of food for the healthy growth of humans and future generations while preserving sustainability, the Minister noted. 

Based on reports, at least 690 million people suffer from hunger across the world, in addition to 2 billion who experience hidden hunger, which is a lack of vitamins and minerals, the Minister added.

Qatar's celebration of this occasion mirrors its affirmation of the importance of providing food for everyone who lives on its land, he said.

This is based on the state's interest, under the wise leadership, to develop natural resources and wealth, particularly agricultural products, and achieve self-sufficiency in these commodities.

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Source: QNA