Afghan Voice Agency (AVA) - Monitoring: According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation, and Livestock, Mawlawi Sadruddin Osmani emphasized the importance of supporting nations grappling with issues like water scarcity and conflict during his address at the conference held in Beijing. He noted, “Afghanistan is one of the countries with great potential for growth and development. If the world wants to reduce poverty, it should begin in Afghanistan, where agriculture, mining, industry, and trade are on the rise.”
Mawlawi Osmani urged for investment in Afghanistan to not only benefit the nation but also assist the one billion people worldwide currently living in poverty. He also addressed the issue of opium cultivation in Afghanistan, highlighting that the country, once the largest producer of narcotics, has successfully eradicated opium poppy cultivation through a special decree from the Islamic Emirate. He mentioned, “Farmers have now shifted to cultivating lawful products. If we want agriculture to thrive, let’s invest in Afghanistan’s agricultural sector and support farmers with alternative livelihood programs.”
Furthermore, he called upon international aid organizations to provide necessary support to Afghan farmers, considering the prevailing security situation. A representative from Oxford University also expressed concerns about Afghanistan’s status and urged global leaders to cooperate with the nation.
This international conference, hosted by China, brought together agricultural specialists and officials from various countries to discuss collaborative efforts for poverty alleviation and agricultural development./Bakhtar News