Bahrain Shura Council endorses joining International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for food

TDT | Manama                                                     

The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com

The Shura Council has approved Bahrain’s accession to the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, accompanied by Decree No. 91 of 2023.

The council reached this decision during a recent session where they discussed the report presented by the Foreign Affairs, Defense, and National Security Committee regarding the draft law.

Abdulrahman Mohammed Jamshir, chairman of the committee, underlined the treaty’s objectives, which revolve around the preservation of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture and the promotion of their sustainable utilisation in line with the principles outlined in the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Ensuring sustainable agriculture and food security stands as a paramount goal for Bahrain. The treaty encompasses a preamble, seven parts, 35 articles, and two annexes. The committee’s endorsement of the draft law comes with several compelling reasons.

Primarily, it complements Bahrain’s national legislative framework concerning environmental protection and development by fostering international partnerships in safeguarding plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.

Food security

“This endorsement bolsters both local and international endeavors towards achieving food security, a vital prerequisite for sustainable development. Additionally, it strengthens cooperation among member states in conserving, sustainably utilizing, and preserving plant genetic resources for food and agriculture,” Mr Jamshir said.

“Bahrain’s participation in this treaty aligns with its commitment to safeguarding its own plant genetic resources, enhancing agricultural production, and improving quality, thereby benefiting Bahraini farmers and the national economy,” he added.

With the Shura Council’s approval, the draft law for Bahrain’s accession to the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, accompanied by Decree No. 91 of 2023, will now proceed to the Speaker of the Council of Representatives for further referral to His Royal Highness the Prime Minister.

Subsequently, It will be presented to His Majesty the King for final approval, marking a significant step forward in Bahrain’s commitment to the preservation and sustainable use of plant genetic resources for food and agriculture.