Doha, February 27 (QNA) - Expo 2023 Doha celebrated the National Day of the United Mexican States in the gardening sector, in the presence of several distinguished guests including heads of diplomatic missions accredited to the country, embassy members, and the Mexican community in Qatar.
The celebration included a number of artistic performances representing Mexican culture, followed by a tour for the participants in the pavilions of both Qatar and Mexico.
On this occasion, HE Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development of the United Mexican States, Victor Manuel Villalobos, expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to be present in Qatar and participate in Expo Doha, this important exhibition. He explained that his country is one of 17 highly diverse countries, being home to about 10 percent of the world's registered species, many of which are endemic. Mexico is the second country with the largest number of reptile species, the third in mammals, the fifth in amphibians and vascular plants, and eleventh in birds.
He further added that his country is distinguished by its vast diversity in cactus plants, with approximately 669 species, which is nearly half of the registered species worldwide totaling 1400 species. He pointed out the important role of these plants in soil stabilization, erosion prevention, and combating desertification.
HE Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development of the United Mexican States said during this exhibition that showcasing "green deserts," consisting of native species that are part of their culture, traditions, and agriculture. They are also known for their high resistance to temperature and requiring minimal water, in addition to the cactus species that are unique to their country.
His Excellency, emphasized Mexico's possession of a large and diverse range of agricultural climates, ranking twelfth as the largest food producer, reaching 301.3 million tons in 2023, including grains, oilseeds, industrial crops, fruit trees, vegetables, fodder, ornamental plants, with its products reaching over 190 countries worldwide.
Dr. Victor Manuel Villalobos further highlighted that in 2023, the exports of fruits and vegetables in volume and value increased compared to 2022. Total vegetable exports reached nearly 7.4 million tons, while fruits accounted for 4.9 million tons. He noted that to expand Mexican products into more markets, his country is developing strategies for inspection, monitoring, and pest and disease prevention to provide customers with high-quality products.
To adopt more sustainable and flexible systems, he explained that his country is developing public policies that allow for the protection of soil, water resources, and biodiversity, and their responsible use. Mexico is also developing a national strategy for sustainable soil and agriculture, achieving human, animal, environmental, and food health, and strict management of fertile soil. He mentioned that they are collaborating with National Institute for Forestry, Agriculture and Livestock Research to promote new production methods and provide producers with the necessary knowledge to address this new global reality through training, technology transfer, and the development of organic products, agricultural inputs, and others, to ensure the production, marketing, and access to local seeds and improved varieties that contribute to food security.
He also praised the role of Expo 2023 Doha in showcasing Mexican agricultural potential and the measures taken to make this sector more sustainable and flexible every day. He emphasized that this global dialogue strengthens the relationship between Mexico and Qatar, positioning them as good partners for development and cooperation in related issues such as innovation, sustainability, and free trade.
On his part, HE Expo 2023 Doha Commissioner General, Ambassador Bader bin Omar Al Dafa, commended the success of the International Horticultural Expo 2023 Doha for closer ties between Qatar and the United Mexican States and supporting the desired goals of both sides in promoting innovation and enhancing sustainability in the fields of agriculture and the environment. He noted the exhibition's success in enhancing cultural exchange between the two countries, highlighting the strong relationship between the two friendly nations and the vast potential of Mexico.
The Mexican pavilion features a variety of plants and flowers brought from Mexico to Doha, showcasing Mexico's vision for a sustainable green future to address challenges such as population growth and increasing demand for key resources like water, energy, and food.
Since its opening, the pavilion has successfully introduced visitors to the authenticity of Mexican culture and heritage, exhibiting the environmental diversity and stunning nature for which Mexico is renowned. It also highlights the state's policies regarding food and water security, as well as its environmental plans to address climate change. The Mexican pavilion represents a new addition to the World Expo, offering a diverse array of flowers and plants and educating visitors about modern agricultural practices. (QNA)