Addressing the Global Fisheries Conference that concluded this Wednesday at the Science City in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, Barange stressed that more than 700 million people are currently suffering from hunger and for nearly three billion, a healthy diet is a luxury.
In this sense, he advocated eliminating what he described as an example of inequalities in the world.
The FAO Director-General for Fisheries and Aquaculture noted that we must be prepared to ensure food security for at least 10 billion people in the next 20 years with smart solutions, inclusive production methods and better supplies with fewer resources.
Barange reiterated that aquaculture and fisheries are part of the solution to these major challenges with efficient and environmentally friendly projects and proven products with high nutritional value.
On the other hand, he advocated transforming the food production system in this sector according to the needs of today’s world, including climate change.
The FAO official explained that the organization calls this leap the sector requires a blue transformation through the development of sustainable processes, especially in regions with food deficits, the promotion of value chains, the proper management of fisheries and the recognition of the significant challenges of each individual country.
This means, among other things, facilitating access to international markets and ensuring the food sovereignty of nations and food policy in recognition of the important role of aquaculture and fisheries, he said.
On the other hand, Barange acknowledged the relevance of the event in finding creative solutions to promote the sector.
He also described India as an important member of FAO, particularly in the field of fisheries and aquaculture.
The Global Fisheries Conference brought together more than five thousand participants, including delegates from the missions of France, New Zealand, Norway, Australia, Russia, Spain, Zimbabwe, Angola, Brazil and Greece, who joined the Indian authorities in advocating for greater international cooperation in the industry .
Under the theme “Celebrating the richness of fisheries and aquaculture,” the two-day event also brought together experts, government officials, scientists, international organizations, industry associations and fishermen to build consensus on improving this emerging sector.
During the conference, Indian Minister Parshottam Rupala highlighted the growth of the national sector in production, export and aquaculture, particularly inland fisheries, in recent years.
However, he acknowledged that coordinated work was still needed to better utilize the Asian country’s wealth.
Currently, India is the world’s third largest fish producer, second largest aquaculture producer, largest shrimp producer and fourth largest seafood producer.
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