BY NED GAGAHE

Minister of Agriculture and Livestock (MAL) Franklyn Derek Wasi says he is looking forward to attend the 44th session of United Nation’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome, Italy from 28th June to 4th July 2025.

In a statement posted on Facebook, Minister Wasi said the purpose of this conference as the supreme governing body of the organization is to determine the policy and approve the budget of the organization.

He said the conference may also make recommendations to member nations concerning food and agriculture matters as well as to international organizations regarding any matter pertaining to the purposes of the organization.

“I am looking forward to attending the 44th Session of the FAO conference, taking place from 28th June to 4th July 2025 in Rome, Italy.

“Beyond governance, the conference serves as an important platform for making recommendations to member nations on issues related to food and agriculture, as well as advising international organizations on matters aligned with FAO’s mandate.”

Minister Wasi said his attendance at the conference is driven by the desire to advance the interests of his island nation and its people; ensuring their voices are represented in key global discussions on food security, sustainability and agricultural development.

He said it is important to note that this trip is fully funded by FAO.

“I respectfully emphasize that not all overseas travel by Ministers of the Crown is financed by Solomon Islands taxpayers.” Minister Wasi said.

The conference meets in regular sessions every two years in June/July and elects the independent chairperson of the council at each session and the director-general of the organization every four years.

Solomon Islands is a member nation amongst 194 member countries.

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