UAE signs cooperative sustainable agriculture agreement with Palestine

The United Arab Emirates has entered into a new agreement to collaborate on sustainable agricultural and animal-raising initiatives with the Palestinian Authority.

The deal came in the form of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between UAE Minister of Environment and Water Rashid Ahmed Bin Fahad and Palestinian Authority Minister of Agriculture Sufian Sultan Al-Tamimi. The accord centers around collaborative efforts for crop, animal and fish farming.

Bin Fahad said the UAE made the collaborative deal as part of a vision of building up stronger economic and policy partnerships throughout the Middle East. He said the UAE is particularly interested in seeking joint solutions to environmental issues.

The MoU sets forth a road map intended to strengthen cooperation between the UAE and Palestine to develop sustainable agriculture techniques and programs.

Palestine and the UAE will share knowledge on scientific research into pesticides and seeds, countering the effects of desertification and using salinated water for fields. The two nations will also exchange technical knowledge on soil and water issues, cultivating date palms, fishing and fish farming.

There will also be a knowledge exchange centered around raising livestock. The programs will include veterinary services and quarantines, controlling cross-border pests and diseases and diagnosing animal health issues.