In a statement to the press following talks with Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, Rural Development, Water and Forests, Mohamed Sadiki, on the sidelines of the 16th Morocco International Agriculture Exhibition in Morocco (SIAM), Planas welcomed the “very great” mutual trust which allows the two countries to work together to successfully meet these challenges.
“The identification of common responses to climate challenges makes me very optimistic about the future and reinforces my conviction in the great mutual trust that drives us,” the Spanish minister said, adding that this trust is the foundation of the two countries’ capacity to work together to progress and overcome these challenges.
Planas also underlined that this meeting was an opportunity to discuss trade exchanges which testify to the solidity of bilateral relations and joint commitment, reaffirming the common willingness to strengthen cooperation and increase these exchanges.
Exports play a crucial role in supporting farmers, he noted, recalling the efforts made by Spain and Morocco to support farmers in facing current climate challenges.
For his part, Sadiki said the choice of Spain as guest of honor of the 16th SIAM, testifies above all to the “strong and very solid” relations between the two Kingdoms in all areas.
“We share a common history and the Mediterranean culture, and in the agricultural sector we share the same challenges and enjoy excellent relations. Moroccan farmers’ challenges are also those of Spanish farmers,” he said.
“As two countries located in the western Mediterranean, we face challenges, but we also have enormous potential unique to our region. Our farming populations are innovative when it comes to coping with climate change and environmental shocks, particularly the impact on water resources which are difficult to manage”, he added.
Sadiki stressed the importance of strengthening cooperation around these themes. “It is through innovation and research that we will solve the equation of doing more with less in terms of resources. Spain and Morocco have the privilege of carrying out leading research together”.
Held on April 22-28 under the theme “Climate and Agriculture: Advocating Sustainable and Resilient Production Systems”, the 2024 SIAM brings together 70 countries and 1,500 exhibitors with 40 conferences and round tables on the program.
It offers visitors a wide range of products and the latest generation of agricultural machinery, designed to promote agricultural and livestock production, as well as key sectors of the regional economy, including agri-food and its corollary, the food industry.
