On the 18th of September 2023, the Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) had the privilege of hosting a delegation from Tunisia, comprising of business representatives from the food and agriculture sector. The visit aimed to strengthen collaboration and explore opportunities for cooperation between the two nations in various sectors. The visit was organized at the initiative of the Ministry of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, and is the first high level visit in the history of bilateral relations between the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Republic of Tunisia.
High Level Meeting of the Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan and the Republic of Tunisia
The working visit of the Tunisian delegation began with a high level meeting with the Minister of Agriculture of the Republic of Kazakhstan, HE Mr.Aidarbek Saparov. The Tunisian delegation consisted of the Minister of Agriculture, Hydraulic Resources and Fisheries HE Mr. Abdel Monem Belati and the President of UTICA HE Mr. Samir Majoul. The Director General of IOFS , HE Prof. Yerlan Baidaulet also coordinated and attended the meeting between the two Member States of the Islamic Organization for Food Security.
Mutual Cooperation Discussions at Kazakhstan Processing&Production Unions
In the first half of the day, within the premises of the IOFS, the Tunisian delegation engaged in fruitful discussions with their counterparts from the Kazakhstan Processing & Production Unions. The talks focused on identifying areas of mutual cooperation and partnership, particularly in the fields of food production and processing.
Exploring Trade Opportunities with Local Retailers
Following the productive discussions at the IOFS, the Tunisian delegation embarked on a visit to local retailers in Kazakhstan. This visit was designed to assess opportunities for Tunisian trade initiation in Kazakhstan, with a focus on food and agricultural products.
Introduction to Investment Opportunities
During the latter half of the day, the delegation, led by Mr. Abdul Monem Belati, the Minister of Agriculture, Hydraulic Resources, and Fisheries of the Republic of Tunisia, held meetings with key organizations in Kazakhstan. These meetings included discussions with the National Company KazakhInvest and the Astana International Financial Centre (AIFC). The aim was to introduce the Tunisian delegation to the diverse investment opportunities and favorable business environment offered by the Republic of Kazakhstan to foreign direct investment (FDI) and foreign companies.
Partnership Prospects in Grain and Cereal Trade
The day's engagements concluded with a meeting between the Tunisian delegation and Mr. Nurlan Ospanov, the Chairman of the Kazakh Grain Union. This meeting explored the potential for partnership in the direct supply of wheat, barley, and other grains and cereals from Kazakhstan to Tunisia. The discussions aimed to streamline the supply chain by reducing intermediaries and ensuring efficient grain trade between the two countries.
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
The visit of the Tunisian delegation to Kazakhstan represents a significant step in fostering stronger ties between the two nations, particularly in the vital sectors of food security, agriculture, and trade. The discussions and interactions throughout the day have laid the foundation for future collaborations that will benefit both countries.
The Islamic Organization for Food Security (IOFS) continues to play a pivotal role in facilitating meaningful partnerships and initiatives in the realm of food security and agriculture, aligning with its mission to enhance food security across its member states and beyond.
