US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, in his address on Tuesday at the World Economic Forum held in the Swiss Ski resort of Davos, reiterated the unwavering commitment of the United States to addressing global food security challenges.
During his presentation, Secretary Blinken announced the launch of a collaborative initiative known as Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS), conducted in partnership with the African Union and the Food and Agriculture Organization. This initiative is an integral component of the USAID’s flagship Feed the Future program. The dual focus of VACS involves investing in both above-ground and below-ground strategies. Above ground, efforts include identifying indigenous African crops with optimal nutritional value and resilience to climate change, enhancing these varieties, and facilitating their dissemination globally. Simultaneously, below ground, investments are directed towards mapping, conserving, and cultivating healthy soils. Secretary Blinken emphasized that the synergy of these endeavors constitutes a fundamental pillar for future agricultural sustainability.
“This represents our comprehensive response within the U.S. government to the issue of food insecurity on a global scale,” Secretary Blinken stated.
Secretary Blinken delivered his address amidst a distinguished assembly comprising over 60 heads of state and government, accompanied by numerous business leaders, convened at the World Economic Forum in Davos. The forum serves as a pivotal platform for leaders from diverse sectors to engage in meaningful discussions and collaborative initiatives aimed at addressing some of the most pressing global challenges.
As Vision for Adapted Crops and Soils (VACS) assumes a central role in the collective effort against food insecurity, Secretary Blinken’s reaffirmation of the United States’ commitment at the Davos forum underscores the imperative of international collaboration and concerted actions to forge a resilient and sustainable future for global agriculture.
