April 16, 2025
The Association of Agricultural Research Institutions in the Near East and North Africa (AARINENA) proudly participated in the Award Ceremony of the Khalifa International Award for Date Palm and Agricultural Innovation – 17th Edition, held today, April 16, at the prestigious Emirates Palace Hotel in Abu Dhabi.
In parallel with this celebration of excellence and innovation, AARINENA was also present at the launching ceremony of the International Consortium for Red Palm Weevil Control, a groundbreaking initiative addressing one of the most serious threats to date palm cultivation across the region and beyond.
It is both an honor and a privilege for AARINENA to be part of this strategic and visionary initiative, which brings together leading international and regional stakeholders. The formation of this Consortium, led by ICARDA, and in collaboration with KIADPAI, the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), FAO-RNE, UAE University, ICBA, and ADAFSA, marks a powerful model of scientific cooperation and integrated response to agricultural challenges.
AARINENA stands in full support of this timely and necessary initiative and reaffirms its commitment to contributing to regional and global efforts that strengthen agricultural resilience, sustainability, and innovation.
We commend all the partners involved for their dedication to safeguarding the future of date palm cultivation—an agricultural and cultural cornerstone of our region.