One of Ukraine's priorities is the development of an efficient agriculture system and the formation of global confidence in food safety standards. This was stated by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in a video speech at the UN Food Systems Summit in New York (USA).
"Ukraine is one of the global leaders in the food market. That is why the topic of the Summit is important for us. We are aware of our responsibility to ensure food security. Ukraine is a reliable partner and even in the most panic periods of the COVID-19 pandemic, it did not create any restrictions on food supplies," the President said.
According to him, our country is aware of the contribution it can make to ensure more sustainable and equitable consumption, and is actively working on these tasks.
"Our priority will remain the development of an efficient agriculture system and the formation of global confidence in the application of established food safety standards. Further sustainable development of national food systems is important. We have significant potential to increase our role in shaping the sustainable supply of food products," the President stressed.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy reminded that Ukraine has already taken a number of important and successful steps towards implementing this ambitious plan. In particular, our country joined the Committee on World Food Security and chaired the International Grains Council. In addition, a full-fledged land market was launched in Ukraine on July 1.
"This is the completion of a 30-year transformation designed to create the conditions for the functioning of the agricultural sector, which allows both small farmers and large agricultural companies to develop. Land reform in Ukraine is first and foremost a concern for people who work on the land, who want to work on it all their lives and bequeath their business," the President said.
Also, according to him, the Healthy Food for All initiative is among the priorities of the draft national roadmap for the transformation of food systems developed in Ukraine.
"First Lady Olena Zelenska is implementing a national campaign to change children's eating habits at school. We are excited to share this experience within the Food Coalition under the auspices of the School Meals: Nutrition, Health and Education for Every Child Summit. Our goal is to ensure both physical and financial access to healthy food for all," the President said.
Among other important tasks is the movement towards climate neutrality of production. According to the Head of State, this goal can be achieved by 2050.
"However, its achievement should not turn into excessive subsidies for wealthy farmers from developed countries. Those who really need it should receive help: farmers from developing countries. Climate policy should not lead to further economic inequality," Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed.
In addition, the President is convinced that it is necessary to strengthen the domestic market and stimulate exports.
"Our goal on this path is to ensure food security, transition to sustainable production and marketing models, as well as the development of the necessary financial instruments," the President said.
He added that Ukraine is a proactive participant in the process of shaping the agenda in the issues of food systems.
"We are ready to continue working with partners and develop our food systems in the context of global challenges facing humanity - both current and future," summed up Volodymyr Zelenskyy.