Riyadh: The State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Municipality, has actively participated in the ministerial meeting of the International Dates Council held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The meeting brought together key stakeholders to discuss the future of the dates industry and address pertinent issues affecting the sector.

According to Qatar News Agency, the Qatari delegation was led by Eng. Fahd bin Mohammed Al Qahtani, Assistant Undersecretary for Agriculture and Food Security Affairs at the Ministry of Municipality. The delegation joined several Ministers of Agriculture and Food Security from Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, as well as representatives from date-producing and importing countries worldwide. The meeting also included participants from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the Arab Organization for Agricultural Development, and the Arab Center for the Studies of Arid Zones and Dry Lands (ACSAD).

The agenda of the meeting covered crucial topics suc
h as the strategy of the International Dates Council, a comprehensive work plan for the next five years, and the organizational structure of the Council. Discussions also focused on the Council’s relationship with the private sector, the election of the Council’s bodies, and strategies for attracting participating members from importing countries and relevant organizations.

The International Dates Council meeting aims to foster international cooperation within the dates industry, implement joint activities, and tackle challenges facing the palm and dates sector. The council is dedicated to addressing research issues, improving production techniques, developing date-related industries, and enhancing capacities to achieve sustainable development in the dates sector both regionally and globally.

Qatar’s involvement in the International Dates Council, especially since its official membership in 2024, underscores its commitment to the palm and dates sector. The country is focused on supporting local date product
ion by advancing the agricultural sector, offering support to farm owners and palm cultivation enthusiasts, and organizing annual exhibitions and festivals to promote local date products. This participation highlights the strategic importance of the agricultural sector and food security in Qatar.