The Minister of Agriculture discussed with a delegation from Catholic Relief Services ways to enhance cooperation in support of farmers and food security.

⭕ Slaimiya: Directing agricultural support based on actual priorities and boosting local production.
⭕ Discussion on developing agricultural interventions and providing production inputs and job opportunities.
⭕ Both sides review "Basateen" project interventions and prospects for expanding development projects.

Ramallah: September 28, 2026

Minister of Agriculture Professor Rizq Sleimieh met today at his office in Ramallah with a delegation from Catholic Relief Services (CRS) to discuss ways to strengthen joint cooperation in supporting the agricultural sector and farmers. The meeting focused on developing interventions aimed at enhancing food security and bolstering farmers' resilience.
The CRS delegation included Country Representative Jason Knapp, CRS Advisor Issa Allan, and "Basateen" Project Manager Saher Khoury. Representing the Ministry were Thaer Al-Rabi, Director General of Rangelands and Forests, and Diana Elian, Manager of the Minister’s Office.
The meeting addressed various agricultural priorities and needs, as well as mechanisms for directing support and interventions to meet farmers' actual requirements, thereby helping them sustain production and preserve their sources of income.
Additionally, the two sides discussed ways to support agricultural production, provide necessary inputs, and assist priority crops and varieties, alongside interventions related to food security and support for farmers and local communities. The meeting also addressed the "Basateen" project and its associated interventions, as well as the potential to expand cooperation on agricultural and development projects. These efforts aim to support farmers, create job opportunities, and boost investment in the agricultural sector.
Slaimiya emphasized the importance of partnerships with international and humanitarian organizations, stressing the need to direct support toward farmers' actual priorities and needs, enhance local production and food security, and bolster farmers' resilience and ability to continue cultivating their land.
For their part, representatives from Catholic Relief Services underscored the importance of continued coordination and cooperation with the Ministry of Agriculture, as well as the development of projects and interventions that serve farmers, foster agricultural development, and support local communities.