اعلام آمادگی ایران برای مشارکت در امنیت غذایی جهانی و پیشرفت روستایی

"Iran's readiness to contribute to global food security and rural development."

Message from the Minister of Agriculture Jihad of the Islamic Republic of Iran

Rural Development in Iran

Rural development has always held a central place in the ideological and political discourse of the Islamic Republic of Iran. This issue, rooted in the principles of the Islamic Revolution, has consistently been a priority of the highest leadership of the country, from Imam Khomeini (may his soul rest in peace) to Ayatollah Khamenei. This comprehensive approach encompasses economic self-sufficiency, social justice, cultural preservation, and the empowerment of local rural capacities. Therefore, rural development is not merely an economic effort, but a strategic path toward achieving equitable growth, reinforcing religious and revolutionary values, and strengthening the social fabric of the country.

A Historical Commitment to Rural Progress

To demonstrate this commitment, Imam Khomeini (may his soul rest in peace) founded the Construction Jihad (Jihad-e Sazandegi) only four months after the victory of the Islamic Revolution in 1979. This revolutionary institution was dedicated to eradicating deprivation and promoting rural progress. Through direct engagement with local communities, it implemented transformative projects in infrastructure, water supply, electrification, healthcare, and education, significantly improving living standards and connectivity in rural areas of Iran. In 2000, a major institutional reform merged Construction Jihad with the Ministry of Agriculture to form the Ministry of Agriculture Jihad. This restructuring aimed to enhance efficiency and centralize governance for sustainable agricultural and rural development, marking a new chapter in Iran’s rural policy framework.

A Farmer- and Village-Centered Vision for Sustainable Development

Today, the Ministry of Agriculture Jihad acts in line with the Iranian-Islamic model of progress and serves as the cornerstone of rural and agricultural development. Iran's national policies consider rural development not as a secondary extension of agriculture, but as a comprehensive strategy to enhance quality of life, ensure economic stability, and curb rural-to-urban migration.

In recent years, the Ministry has shifted from an agriculture-centered to a farmer- and village-centered approach, emphasizing sustainable development, inclusive productivity, and food security. This model seeks to empower farmers and rural stakeholders as the main agents of progress in agriculture and rural welfare.

Global Cooperation for Local Impact

Engagement with international organizations and knowledge exchange plays a vital role in the Ministry’s strategy. These partnerships enhance policymaking, boost productivity, and accelerate progress toward sustainable rural development. Notably, the Ministry’s efforts in job creation, poverty alleviation, and human capital development earned it the prestigious Azizul Haq Rural Development Medal from the Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP).

Through collaborative projects, research, and educational programs, the Ministry facilitates innovation and technology transfer in agriculture and rural development. Participation in international workshops—such as CIRDAP’s training courses—supports knowledge sharing and the adaptation of successful global models to Iran’s context.

Iran’s membership in multilateral bodies such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS offers further opportunities for resource sharing in poverty reduction and sustainable development. The Ministry also welcomes CIRDAP’s proposal to designate July 6 as the International Day of Rural Development under the United Nations. It believes this initiative will enhance global coordination, awareness, and swift action for rural communities worldwide.

Toward a Shared Future of Prosperity

Considering Iran’s positive trajectory in rural development, we are confident in achieving our goals for this vital sector. By leveraging the expertise of CIRDAP member countries and other international partners, Iran stands ready to meaningfully contribute to global food security and rural advancement. This knowledge exchange and multilateral cooperation not only elevate the livelihoods of rural communities in Iran but also offer a replicable model for other nations.

Through unity—both national and international—we can shape a sustainable, just, and prosperous future for rural communities everywhere.