Excellencies, ladies and gentlemen, access to food is a human right. And sustainable food systems are vital for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.
Norway recently presented a white paper on the steps we will take to reach the SDGs by 2030.
We will commit to doing more:
We will promote food safety as part of One Health. We are still in the middle of a pandemic. The One Health approach connecting human, plant and animal health must be at the top of the global agenda.
We will reduce food waste. Food should never be wasted. Norway will strengthen its food waste agreement with the industry. We support the establishment of a coalition to end food waste and loss.
We will take relevant climate action. The food sector is heavily affected by climate change. This sector must both cut emissions and adapt to change. Norway will continue to make its food production policies more climate-friendly. We work with partners in tropical forest countries to ensure that supply chains do not contribute to deforestation.
Food from the oceans deserves a greater role in our food systems. Norway will enage with the Alliance on Aquatic Food. We will continue our leading role in initiatives such as the Ocean Panel and the Global Action Network on sustainable food from the oceans and inland waters.
We will reduce premature deaths from non-communicable diseases. We will strengthen our efforts to promote a healthy and sustainable diet. Norway will continue to work with the Healthy Diet Coalition.
We will empower the smallholder farmer in our development assistance. We will place farmers at the core of the seed system. Seed security is key. We will take active part in the Zero Hunger Coalition.
We will continue to combat food insecurity. The growing number of people suffering from hunger is alarming. Hidden hunger and malnutrition, especially among children, are of great concern. Small-scale food producers have a key role to play. We are pleased to have joined the School Meals Coalition.
And finally, we will support indigenous food systems. The full participation of local communities and indigenous peoples must be ensured in the follow-up of the summit.
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves!
Thank you!