FAO and ICIMOD Join Forces to Strengthen Climate-Smart Agri-Food Systems in the HKH Region
Kathmandu– In a strategic step toward enhancing regional cooperation for sustainable agriculture, Mr. Ken Shimizu, FAO Representative for Bhutan and Nepal, held a high-level meeting with Dr. Pema Gyamtsho, Director General of the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). The discussion aimed to deepen collaboration on building resilient, inclusive, and climate-smart agri-food systems across the Hindu Kush Himalayan (HKH) region.
During the meeting, both institutions reaffirmed their shared commitment to promoting sustainable mountain development through strengthened partnerships, innovation, and coordinated regional action.
Key thematic priorities of the dialogue included advancing the One Health approach to address transboundary animal and zoonotic diseases, promoting agroecological practices, and supporting integrated management of water and land resources to reduce climate risks and boost ecosystem resilience.
The two leaders also discussed the need to transform mountain agri-food systems to become more inclusive, equitable, and adaptive to the impacts of climate change, especially for rangeland-dependent and pastoralist communities. In this regard, both FAO and ICIMOD agreed to work closely on regional programming and stakeholder engagement for the observance of the International Year of Rangelands and Pastoralists (IYRP).
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) plays a critical role in leading international efforts to end hunger and improve nutrition and food security.
In Nepal and Bhutan, FAO supports governments in developing sustainable agricultural practices, enhancing rural livelihoods, and addressing the challenges posed by climate change. Through technical cooperation and policy support, FAO promotes inclusive agri-food systems that are productive, resilient, and environmentally sound.
The International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) is a regional intergovernmental learning and knowledge-sharing center serving the eight countries of the HKH region – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, and Pakistan. ICIMOD works to improve the well-being and resilience of mountain communities by promoting sustainable and inclusive development, climate change adaptation, ecosystem management, and regional cooperation in the fragile mountain environment.
This collaboration marks a renewed push for sustainable food systems and environmental resilience across one of the world’s most ecologically and culturally diverse regions. It also demonstrates a shared vision to harness the power of science, policy, and partnership in addressing the pressing challenges faced by mountain communities in the face of a changing climate.
