Astana, 12 September 2024 – His Excellency Ambassador Berik Aryn, Director-General of the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS), today received H.E. Ambassador El-Ghazali Eltigani Sirrag, Ambassador of the Republic of Sudan to the Russian Federation, at the IOFS Headquarters in Astana.
During the meeting, H.E. Ambassador Aryn congratulated H.E. Ambassador Sirrag on the presentation of his letter of accreditation to H.E. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, President of the Republic of Kazakhstan. Ambassador Aryn highlighted the strategic importance of Sudan as a member state of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and underscored its vast agricultural potential, positioning Sudan as one of the key candidates to become the “Food Basket” of the OIC region. The Director General expressed hope for the stabilization of the situation in Sudan amid the ongoing humanitarian crises and conflicts, aligning with IOFS’s mission to promote sustainable food security.
H.E. Ambassador Sirrag, in return, congratulated H.E. Ambassador Aryn on his election as the Director-General of IOFS and provided a brief overview of the current situation in Sudan. He outlined the significant challenges Sudan is facing in the areas of agriculture and food security, particularly in light of recent conflicts and economic disruptions. These challenges have severely impacted food production and accessibility, leaving many in urgent need of humanitarian aid.
In response to these pressing needs, H.E. Ambassador Sirragformally requested the support of the IOFS in contributing to humanitarian aid programs aimed at addressing food shortages and agricultural recovery in Sudan. He expressed his optimism for stronger cooperation between Sudan and IOFS, particularly in developing sustainable solutions for food security.
Additionally, H.E. Ambassador Sirrag extended an official invitation to H.E. Ambassador Aryn to visit Sudan, highlighting the importance of strengthening ties and exploring opportunities for collaboration between IOFS and Sudan’s agricultural sector.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to deepening cooperation to enhance food security and agricultural development in Sudan and across the OIC region.
