Erdoğan Emphasizes Safe Food Access as National Security Issue

President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan delivered a video message at the opening ceremony of the World Food Forum, where he underscored that access to safe food is a fundamental component of national security. He urged for greater efforts to combat food waste and to secure a sustainable future for generations to come.

Erdoğan stated, "We cannot speak of peace, tranquility or prosperity in a world where we witness millions struggling to survive without even dry bread on the one hand, while food waste continues to increase on the other." His remarks reflect a growing concern about the disparity between food scarcity and waste.

The president noted that Türkiye is committed to leaving a livable world for future generations, particularly in the realms of climate change, environmental protection, and food security. He emphasized that access to safe food should not be viewed merely as a supply issue but as a crucial element of national security, and that the government is taking steps to address this.

According to global reports, approximately 60 percent of food waste occurs at the consumer level, primarily in households. This amounts to around 1.5 billion tons of food produced worldwide being lost or wasted each year.

Erdoğan Advocates for Global Food Leadership

In addition to discussing food security, Erdoğan called for support for Türkiye’s candidate, Mehdi Eker, in the election for director-general of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization. Eker, a veterinarian and agricultural economist, previously served as Türkiye’s minister of food, agriculture, and livestock from 2005 to 2015.

Cleared for Release

Erdoğan's statements come amid ongoing global challenges related to food security, which have been exacerbated by various factors including climate change and geopolitical tensions. The need for sustainable practices in food production and consumption has never been more pressing.

As the world grapples with these issues, Erdoğan's call to action serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of food security and national stability. Addressing food waste and ensuring access to safe food are vital steps toward achieving a more secure and prosperous future for all.