Liberia Calls for Fair Global Cooperation at Berlin Food and Agriculture Forum
[Berlin, Germany, January 16, 2026] Agriculture Minister Dr. J. Alexander Nuetah called for stronger, fairer global cooperation that fully includes developing countries. He made the call during a roundtable discussion titled "Emerging Powers and Developing Economies' Perspectives on Protecting Global Cooperation Amid Geopolitical Shifts" on the sidelines of the ongoing 18th Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) in Berlin, Germany.
The Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA) is an international conference where world leaders, policymakers, and experts discuss key issues shaping the future of agriculture and food policy. It is held every year during the International Green Week in Berlin. It is organized by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Regional Identity, in partnership with Messe Berlin GmbH.
Speaking at the Forum, Dr. Nuetah said global power dynamics are changing, with more countries now playing essential roles in international affairs. He stressed that global systems must also change to give developing countries a stronger voice in decision-making.
The Minister noted that many countries in the Global South still have limited influence in global decisions, despite facing the most serious challenges, including food insecurity, climate change, and poverty. He warned that rising protectionism and one-sided policy decisions are weakening cooperation and reducing development support.
Dr. Nuetah called for reforms in major international institutions, including the United Nations, the World Trade Organization, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank. He said reforms should focus on fairness, easing debt pressure, and improving access to technology.
The Forum has brought together about 65 agriculture ministers from around the world, along with more than ten senior representatives from international organizations, highlighting its global importance.
Dr. Nuetah welcomed Germany’s plan to establish a North–South Commission, describing it as an important step toward stronger cooperation with developing countries. He encouraged Germany and the European Union to continue supporting fair climate policies and development financing.
The Minister also raised concerns about the European Union Deforestation Regulation, saying the requirements could be challenging for smallholder farmers who lack the financial resources and technology to comply. Without targeted support, he warned, many farmers could lose access to international markets.
Dr. Nuetah further called on development finance institutions, including the European Investment Bank, to provide more flexible financing that responds to the real needs of developing countries.
He concluded by urging global partners to work together during this period of change, stressing that open dialogue, shared responsibility, and fair governance are key to building strong and sustainable global food systems.
This year’s GFFA is scheduled from January 18 to 25, 2026, with the theme “Food Systems of the Future: Together for a World Without Hunger.”
