WANA (Sep 14) – Iran has officially joined the Global Framework on Water Scarcity in Agriculture (WASAG), an initiative led by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

 

According to the Ministry of Agriculture’s Water and Soil Department, the Islamic Republic of Iran began its formal cooperation with the program in August 2025. The membership was finalized following consultations and through Iran’s Permanent Representation to FAO in Rome.

 

During the 13th Annual Plenary Assembly of FAO’s Global Soil Partnership in Italy, Iran’s Deputy Minister for Water and Soil met with Li Lifeng, Director of FAO’s Land and Water Division. The meeting highlighted the importance of strengthening technical cooperation and leveraging existing capacities to promote sustainable water and soil management in Iran. Lifeng, referring to Iran’s millennia-old agricultural heritage and the qanat system as an example of indigenous knowledge, welcomed expanded collaboration and proposed that Iran officially join WASAG.

 

WASAG, launched by FAO’s Land and Water Division, now brings together 76 countries and international organizations. It focuses on developing policies and solutions to address water scarcity challenges and improve water use in agriculture to safeguard global food security.

 

For Iran, this membership is seen as a milestone in technical cooperation with FAO. It is expected to enhance technical expertise, create new opportunities for specialists, and strengthen the country’s role in international forums.

Iranian Farmer. Social media / WANA News Agency

Iranian Farmer. Social media / WANA News Agency