Ms Emelia Tay, in her capacity as Vice-Chair of the Programme Committee, participated in a visit by FAO Council Members to the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre of Nuclear Techniques in Food and Agriculture in Seibersdorf, Austria, under the leadership of FAO Director-General, Dr. Qu Dongyu.
The visit brought together 36 FAO Council Members, alongside the Independent Chairperson of the Council and Chairs and Vice-Chairs of key governing bodies, to gain insights into how science, technology and innovation, specifically the application of nuclear techniques to address global agrifood challenges. The delegation visited specialized laboratories covering plant breeding and genetics, animal health, soil and water management, insect pest control, and food safety.
Established in 1964, the Joint FAO/IAEA Centre remains a flagship example of effective UN inter-agency cooperation, delivering practical scientific solutions that strengthen food security, agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability. The visit underscored the importance of continued support for science-based and partnership-driven approaches to ensure FAO remains responsive, innovative and results-oriented in addressing evolving agrifood challenges.
