Minister Carlos Fávaro hands over G20 Agriculture Working Group presidency to South Africa

Following two days of intense discussions, the G20 Agriculture Working Group (AWG) ministerial meeting concluded on Friday (13). The event featured the presentation of the Ministerial Declaration and the transfer of the group's presidency to South Africa, the next G20 host. 

The Ministerial Declaration, developed over a year of debates, prioritized combating hunger and poverty through sustainable and inclusive production while addressing climate change to ensure food and nutrition security. 

"During this meeting, we discussed ways to enhance the resilience and sustainability of our food and agricultural systems, focusing on three key dimensions: economic, social, and food security," said Brazil’s Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Carlos Fávaro. 

He also acknowledged the efforts made during India's G20 presidency in 2023, which helped the ministers reach a consensus in drafting the Declaration. Fávaro emphasized the importance of the High-Level Principles for Food Security and Nutrition as a foundation for the actions discussed. 

After presenting the Declaration, Minister Fávaro passed the AWG presidency to South Africa’s Minister of Agriculture, Rosemary Nokuzola Capa. South Africa will assume the G20 presidency in the next cycle, beginning in December. 

"We are confident that, under South African leadership, we will see innovative perspectives that will strengthen global efforts toward a more secure and sustainable future," stated Fávaro. 

Full speech by Minister Carlos Fávaro at the G20 AWG ministerial meeting: 

“For your resilience, dedication, and understanding of the importance of the issues discussed, we have collectively shaped a Declaration that will guide the future of agriculture globally. 

I extend my deep gratitude to everyone for their exemplary leadership during the G20 in 2023. The actions taken paved the way for Brazil’s presidency, advancing key issues that affect the lives of millions globally. 

We recognize the significance of the High-Level Principles for Food Security and Nutrition, established during India's presidency, as a solid foundation for our ongoing efforts. 

In this meeting, we focused on strengthening the resilience and sustainability of food and agricultural systems, with a focus on three dimensions: economic, social, and food security. 

Today, we face significant global challenges like climate change, biodiversity loss, and food insecurity, which impact millions, especially those in vulnerable situations. 

Brazil reaffirms its commitment to sustainable agricultural practices that ensure food security, reduce poverty, and protect the environment. 

We eagerly anticipate the launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty at the G20 meeting in November in Rio de Janeiro, a pivotal step in the fight against hunger and the promotion of global partnerships for sustainable development. 

I reaffirm my commitment and invite South Africa to take its place. At this moment, I officially hand over the presidency of the Agriculture Working Group to South Africa. 

We wish South Africa great success as they assume the G20 presidency in 2025. We are confident they will continue the legacy of fostering high-level discussions and proposing effective solutions essential to the G20 Agriculture Working Group. Our countries share many similarities and are driven by the same goals for sustainable agricultural development. 

We trust that, under South African leadership, we will see fresh perspectives that will further global efforts toward a secure and sustainable future. 

Finally, I would like to thank all partner countries for their collaboration in building a global consensus on such a crucial issue as agriculture and food security. Let us stay united in our mission to transform food systems and agriculture, ensuring a prosperous and secure future for all nations." 


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