Astana Emerges as Key Platform for OIC Food Security Dialogue
Astana hosted a high-level roundtable on Dec. 17 marking IOFS Day and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Food Security Day, bringing together senior officials and experts to reaffirm their commitment to addressing food insecurity through enhanced multilateral cooperation.
Speaking at the event, Ambassador and Director General of the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) Berik Aryn expressed gratitude to the Government and people of Kazakhstan for hosting and supporting the organization, underscoring Kazakhstan’s pivotal role in advancing food security initiatives across the OIC.
The IOFS was established following a proposal put forward by Kazakhstan at the 7th World Islamic Economic Forum in 2011 and has since served as a key platform for coordinating food security efforts among OIC member states.
Aryn outlined the organization’s key achievements in 2025, including the expansion of the Afghanistan Food Security Program, the launch of the Flour for Humanity – Gaza Emergency Appeal, and continued implementation of the Africa Food Security Initiative. He also highlighted progress under the IOFS Strategic Vision 2031 and ongoing preparations for a comprehensive strategic plan to ensure food security across OIC member states.
The Director General further noted that IOFS has strengthened international partnerships through active participation in major global forums, including the UN Food Systems Summit in Addis Ababa, the African Food Systems Summit in Dakar, and Global Green Week in Seoul.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Alibek Kuantyrov reaffirmed Kazakhstan’s political support for IOFS, emphasizing the growing importance of multilateral cooperation amid climate change, water scarcity and volatility in global food markets. He noted that 41 of the OIC’s 57 member states have joined IOFS, with interest continuing to grow among remaining countries and international institutions.
Kuantyrov also highlighted plans to establish an IOFS gene bank in Kazakhstan to preserve and expand plant genetic resources, alongside Kazakhstan’s continued provision of humanitarian food assistance to countries affected by crises.
Vice Minister of Agriculture Ermek Kenzhehanuly outlined Kazakhstan’s agricultural potential and national priorities, including the modernization of irrigation infrastructure and the expansion of water-saving technologies. He stressed the importance of regional cooperation through IOFS mechanisms, noting that collaboration with the organization is practical and results-oriented, aimed at strengthening food security, fostering innovation and improving public well-being.
Photo credit: IOFS press service
