KRG Ministry of Agriculture and Water Resources Signs MoU with CIHEAM Bari

On Wednesday, 12 February, 2025, the Kurdistan Regional Government's (KRG) Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources, Begard Talabani, delivered a speech at the General Confederation of Italian Industry headquarters in Rome during the Economic Forum Summit between the KRG and the Italian government.

Addressing an audience of Italian agricultural, trade, industrial, and financial sector representatives, Minister Talabani outlined the ministry’s initiatives to enhance agriculture, irrigation, and livestock development in the Kurdistan Region. She also highlighted investment opportunities and addressed the challenges posed by climate change.

Emphasising the need to support farmers and strengthen food and water security, Minister Talabani underscored the importance of collaboration in advancing the region’s agricultural sector.

Following the signing of the memorandum, Minister Talabani described the agreement as a significant milestone in cooperation between the KRG and the Mediterranean Agronomic Institute of Bari (CIHEAM Bari).

This partnership aims to promote rural development through the sustainable expansion of the Kurdistan Region’s olive oil value chain (KORES).

The initiative seeks to enhance olive production, branding, and marketing while also supporting olive farmers through capacity building and skills development. Additionally, the MoU fosters links between agriculture and the tourism sector, creating new economic opportunities.