FAO and Iran Unite to Launch Innovative Project for Climate-Resilient Farming Solutions
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has recently unveiled an innovative Regional Technical Cooperation Project in collaboration with the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran. This initiative is designed to enhance national and regional capabilities in climate-resilient agriculture, paving the way for a sustainable agricultural future.
This groundbreaking project extends beyond Iran, encompassing neighboring countries such as Afghanistan, Bhutan, and Mongolia. Its primary focus is on promoting the sustainable intensification of vital crops like quinoa, millets, and soybeans, all of which are renowned for their drought tolerance and exceptional nutritional value.
The official launch of the project took place during the National Inception Workshop in Tehran on October 21, 2025. This significant event gathered approximately 40 participants from various sectors, including government officials, private sector representatives, research institutions, civil society organizations, specialized associations, farmers, and food and feed industries. Notably, representatives from FAO’s Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific and the FAO Iran Representation were also present.
During the workshop, attendees formed three product-based stakeholder groups to engage in discussions regarding the project’s background, objectives, expected outcomes, and implementation strategy. They prioritized activities and finalized the country work plan, ensuring that it aligns with national needs and incorporates feedback from all participants.
The Islamic Republic of Iran is situated in an arid and semi-arid region, grappling with significant water scarcity and recurrent droughts that have increasingly burdened its agricultural systems. With agriculture responsible for nearly 80 percent of total water withdrawals, this sector is particularly susceptible to the adverse impacts of climate change, including diminished rainfall, rising temperatures, and accelerated evaporation rates.
In light of these challenges, the FAO regional project offers a comprehensive framework for countries to tackle water and climate issues through:
- Agronomic innovations
- Technology transfer
- Institutional strengthening
- Awareness-raising about the nutritional and environmental benefits of climate-resilient crops
Within Iran, the project aims to:
- Scale up the cultivation of drought-tolerant crops such as quinoa, millets, and soybeans
- Promote Good Agricultural Practices (GAP)
- Implement Participatory Varietal Selection (PVS)
- Establish Farmer Field Schools (FFS) to enhance productivity and sustainability
- Build national capacity in climate-resilient farming systems and water-efficient practices
- Foster partnerships among research institutions, farmers, and private sector actors to ensure long-term adoption and scaling of results
This initiative supports Iran’s broader strategy to diversify production systems and increase water productivity. By adapting agriculture to changing climatic conditions, the project aims to safeguard food and nutrition security for future generations.
As the world faces increasing challenges related to climate change, initiatives like this one are crucial in promoting sustainable agricultural practices and ensuring the resilience of food systems in vulnerable regions. The collaboration between FAO and the Iranian government marks a significant step forward in addressing these pressing issues.
In conclusion, the FAO’s Regional Technical Cooperation Project represents a pivotal move towards enhancing climate resilience in agriculture across Iran and its neighboring regions. By focusing on sustainable practices and fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, this project aims to create a more secure and sustainable agricultural future.
