LEBANON – Lebanese Minister of Agriculture Dr. Nizar Hani continued his official visit to the Netherlands, where he held a series of meetings with academic and research institutions specializing in agriculture and food security, aiming to enhance cooperation and transfer knowledge and technology to Lebanon.
Minister Hani, heading a Lebanese delegation, visited Wageningen University & Research, one of the world’s leading institutions in the fields of sustainable agriculture, food security, agricultural innovation, and natural resource management.
During the meetings, the university’s role in developing scientific and technological solutions to agricultural, food, and environmental challenges was presented, in addition to translating research into practical applications and public policies that support sustainable development.
Roundtable on Agricultural Governance and Innovation
The Lebanese delegation participated in a scientific roundtable that brought together a group of experts and researchers. Discussions focused on modern agricultural governance, the relationship between governments, universities, and the private sector, as well as mechanisms for transferring research outputs to farmers and markets.
The discussions also addressed the role of business incubators and innovation centers in supporting agricultural entrepreneurship and transforming scientific knowledge into sustainable economic projects, along with presenting successful models of public-private partnerships.
The delegation was introduced to the latest technologies in plant growth analysis using artificial intelligence, and learned about advanced systems for monitoring crop environmental responses and developing plant varieties more resilient to climate change.
The visit also included the Dutch Centre for Plant Phenotyping, in addition to Q-Point, which specializes in food safety and traceability systems and agricultural certifications, as well as HydroSat, which relies on satellite data to improve agricultural water management.
Focus on Water Management and Smart Agriculture
The discussions highlighted the use of modern technologies in monitoring crop water needs and improving irrigation efficiency, particularly in regions suffering from water scarcity and climate stress, while exploring the possibility of transferring these technologies to Lebanon to support agricultural sustainability.
Minister Hani stressed that the Dutch experience represents an advanced model in linking scientific research with public policy and the private sector, noting that the challenges facing Lebanon’s agricultural sector require increased investment in scientific research, technology, and the development of agricultural extension systems.
He added that developing the agricultural sector in Lebanon requires a shift toward a knowledge-based agricultural economy by connecting scientific research with public policies and promoting innovation and entrepreneurship.
Role of Lebanese Expertise Abroad
Minister Hani highlighted the growing role of Lebanese experts in international scientific institutions, considering them a strategic bridge for transferring knowledge and strengthening cooperation between Lebanon and global research institutions.
He also praised their contributions to developing innovative solutions to agricultural and environmental challenges, emphasizing that their success represents a national asset that can be leveraged to advance Lebanon’s agricultural sector.
The visit concluded with an emphasis on the importance of expanding research and academic cooperation between Lebanon and the Netherlands, enhancing the exchange of expertise and the transfer of modern agricultural technologies, in support of efforts to develop Lebanon’s agricultural sector and strengthen its ability to address climate change and achieve food security and sustainable development.
