Skopje, 16 October 2025 (MIA) - Food is not only a necessity, but also dignity, health and future. It is our culture and identity. Farmers create the domestic economy, providing us with food security through their work. Let us cherish the Macedonian Best, produce quality agricultural products and ensure that everyone has access to safe food, Minister of Agricultyre, Forestry and Water Economy, Cvetan Tripunovski, said on Thursday. 

Speaking at Thursday's event on World Food Day and the 80th anniversary of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Tripunovski noted that as the world is witnessing numerous challenges, conflicts, natural disasters, climate change and pandemics, the mission remains unchanged - to provide food for all, strengthen agriculture and build a more secure future.  

"Over the past years, the Government and FAO have built a strong and trusting partnership, showing how working together can achieve concrete results, better conditions for farmers, higher quality food for citizens and sustainable development of our villages. Macedonia has a rich agricultural tradition - from the grain fields of Pelagonia, through the vineyards in the Vardar region, to the orchards in Prespa, and it has all the prerequisites - fertile soil, sunny days, clean and safe water to produce high quality agricultural products," the Minister said.

He pointed out that the role of farmers, particularly in this time of climate change, is more important than ever.

"The Government is committed to supporting the agricultural sector. We are working hard to modernize agriculture, improve infrastructure in our rural areas, ensure reliable procurement and facilitate access to markets. Our goal is also to get as many young people involved in the agricultural sector as possible," Tripunovski stressed.

He also mentioned the Macedonian Best campaign that was launched several months ago. 

"'Macedonian Best' is more than a slogan, it is our commitment to increasing and strengthening domestic agricultural production, ensuring prosperity in rural areas, raising awareness about the quality, authenticity and significance of domestic products, ensuring easier access for citizens to domestic agricultural products and processing," said Tripunovski.

On the occasion of the FAO's anniversary, trees were planted in the Francophonie Park as a symbol of the joint commitment to a green and sustainable future.

According to Dame Dimitrovski, the Prime Minister's advisor on environment, this day is not only a reminder of the FAO's successful work over the past years, but also a call for the future, for responsibility towards future generations.

"Every step we take today, every tree we plant, every change we initiate is an investment in the future of our children. They deserve to grow up in a world where food is healthy, air is clean, and nature is protected. We are putting up a symbol of hope and vision that changes are possible, and they begin with small but significant individual actions by each of us. They are the foundation of every great transformation. Our task is clear - to continue investing in innovation, green technologies and education because sustainability is not just an economic or ecological goal, but a moral obligation towards future generations," said Dimitrovski, highlighting the Government's strong partnership with the FAO, which focuses on access to global climate funds, among other things. 

According to Kristina Mitic Arsova, FAO National Programme Coordinator, eight decades is a long time of work and dedication towards the sole goal of ensuring a world without hunger and a dignified life for all.

"For the past 80 years, FAO has built its mission on four pillars: better production, better nutrition, better environment and a better life, hand in hand with farmers and local communities. This is our universal framework that also guides cooperation with Macedonia. Together, we have implemented many successful projects, working as true partners. World Food Day reminds us that food is much more than fuel for humans, it is the foundation of health, peace and a dignified life, food is one of the fundamental human rights. This day is a reminder that we all have a responsibility to provide healthy, safe and affordable food, and today more than ever we need to remain united in this mission. Climate change and the loss of natural resources require new, inventive solutions," Mitic Arsova pointed out.

The event also features a photo exhibition showcasing the FAO's work over the past 80 years. Creative activities for children and youth are also included.

World Food Day, which this year also marks the 80th anniversary of UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), is held under the theme "Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future", and calls for renewed global collaboration in creating more sustainable agrifood systems and protecting natural resources.  

Photo: MIA