The representative of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations in Azerbaijan, Nasar Hayat, along with the delegation he led, visited the Azerbaijan State Agricultural University (ADAU).
During the meeting with the guests, the rector of the university, Zafar Gurbanov, congratulated them on the 80th anniversary of the FAO and expressed his hope for the continuation of long-term and effective cooperation.
Nasar Hayat, FAO’s representative in Azerbaijan, emphasized that elevating the collaboration between FAO and ADAU to the highest level is among their strategic objectives. He stated, “In most countries, engaging young people in agriculture is quite challenging. However, it is gratifying to observe that in Azerbaijan, particularly at the Agricultural University, young individuals demonstrate a strong interest in agricultural disciplines and the sector as a whole.”
Following the meeting, a forum titled “Strengthening Agricultural Cooperatives for Sustainable Development” was organized at the Azerbaijan State Agricultural University to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the FAO.
During the forum, the rector of ADAU, Zafar Gurbanov, underscored the significance of cooperatives as one of the key driving forces of the modern economy. He also highlighted that in recent years, the establishment and efficient management of cooperatives have played a crucial role in the diversification of the national economy, the development of the non-oil sector, and the expansion of entrepreneurial activities in Azerbaijan. Additionally, he extended his congratulations to all FAO employees and partners on the occasion of the organization’s 80th anniversary and wished them success in their future endeavors.
Leyli Agayeva, Head of the Department for Farmers, Associations, and Cooperatives at the Ministry of Agriculture (MOA), informed the forum participants about the current state of cooperatives in Azerbaijan, the initiatives undertaken in this regard, and the challenges encountered in the process.
In his address, Nasar Hayat elaborated on FAO’s efforts in the field of agriculture globally and in Azerbaijan. He also emphasized the pivotal role that cooperatives play in the advancement of agriculture and regional development.
Following the speeches, the forum proceeded with two panel discussions.
The first panel, titled “Successful Cooperative Models from Türkiye,” featured Berrin Var, Chairperson of the S.S. Gönen Merkez Tuzakçı Hasanbey Agricultural Development Cooperative, along with other cooperative members. They shared insights into the success stories and experiences of agricultural cooperatives in Türkiye.
The second panel, “Developed Azerbaijani Cooperatives,” included speakers such as Taliye Masumova from the Western Innovations Cooperative, Mammad Bayramov from the Eco-Süt Cooperative, and Ali Mammadov from the Golden Apple Cooperative. These representatives of successful Azerbaijani cooperatives discussed their experiences and future prospects in the sector.
