Baghdad: Minister of Labor and Social Affairs, Ahmed Al-Asadi, recently met with a delegation from the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), led by the organization’s Resident Representative in Iraq, Salah El Hajj Hassan. The delegation also included Ali Kamouna, Director of FAO’s Middle Euphrates Office. The meeting focused on strategies to bolster joint efforts in food security and empower vulnerable populations, specifically those benefiting from social protection programs.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the discussions highlighted the need to support small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly in rural areas. Minister Al-Asadi emphasized the ministry’s commitment to transitioning social assistance into sustainable production opportunities through collaborations with international bodies, notably FAO. He underscored the significance of launching training programs and employment initiatives aimed at enhancing the living conditions of individuals under the ministry’s care.