Astana, Kazakhstan, July 22, 2024 – The Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) and the OIC Labour Centre (OIC LC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance cooperation in food security, agriculture, and rural development. The signing ceremony took place on the sidelines of the 16th UN-OIC Biennial General Coordination Meeting, underscoring a commitment to strengthen collaboration between IOFS and OIC LC for the socio-economic benefit of OIC Member States.
The MoU, signed by H.E. Ambassador Berik Aryn, Director General of IOFS, and H.E. Mr. Azar Bayramov, Director General of OIC LC, outlines a framework for joint activities and projects aimed at advancing food security and promoting sustainable agriculture and rural development. Key areas of cooperation include:
- Knowledge Exchange and Capacity Building: Facilitating the exchange of knowledge and expertise in food and agriculture security, as well as labor issues, to enhance the capabilities of OIC Member States.
- Training Programs: Implementing training programs focused on improving agricultural skills and promoting best practices in food and labor safety.
- Labor Rights Advocacy: Advocating for improved labor rights, including fair wages, safe working environments, and protection of workers' rights in the agricultural sector.
- Job Creation Initiatives: Collaborating on initiatives aimed at creating jobs in the agricultural sector, particularly in rural areas, to foster economic stability.
- Gender Equality and Youth Empowerment: Promoting gender equality and youth empowerment in agriculture, ensuring equal opportunities for women and young people to participate and benefit from agricultural activities.
This partnership between IOFS and OIC LC reaffirms their commitment to mutual cooperation and underscores their dedication to achieving sustainable food security and rural development within the OIC Member States.