This roundtable, co-hosted by the Belgian Government and CGIAR, will bring together representatives from the EU institutions, Member States, partner countries, civil society and the research community to discuss the strategic role of agricultural research and innovation in the next Global Europe programme.

Food systems across regions are increasingly interconnected. Climate shocks, disruptions to energy and fertiliser markets, conflict and trade pressures can rapidly affect agricultural production, supply chains, food prices, farmers and consumers around the world.

The discussion will explore how EU investment in food systems research and innovation contributes to the generation of global public goods and supports the transition towards more resilient, sustainable and productive food systems worldwide. In an increasingly interconnected world, international research partnerships can help address shared challenges, strengthen resilience across food systems and generate benefits that extend across regions. The discussion will consider opportunities for mutually beneficial research cooperation and how Global Europe can continue to support effective international research partnerships, including through CGIAR.

The 90-minute roundtable will be followed by a networking reception.

Panel speakers:

Anna Okello. Director, Food Frontiers and Security Science Program, CGIAR

Christophe Larose. DG INTPA, Unit F3, European Commission.

Cecilia D'Alessandro. Policy Analyst, Sustainable Food Systems, ECDPM.

Joanna Kane-Potaka. Executive Secretary, Global Forum on Agricultural Research and Innovation (GFAiR).

Moderated by

Annemarie Van der Avort. Director for Climate, Environment and Sustainable Food Systems, Federal Public Service Foreign Affairs, Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, Belgium.

Concluding remarks by

Stephanie Speck. Global Director, Strategic Partnerships, Engagement & Communications at The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, a CGIAR Center.