Latest news with #Dongyu


Iraq Business
7 days ago
- Politics
- Iraq Business
Iraq and FAO launch $39m Climate Resilience Project
By John Lee. The Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Mr. QU Dongyu, has launched a $39-million project titled "Strengthening Climate Resilience of Vulnerable Agricultural Livelihoods in Southern Iraq" (SRVALI) , in partnership with key Iraqi ministries. The launch took place in Baghdad during the 5th Baghdad International Water Conference. Funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) with co-financing from the Governments of Canada and Sweden (SIDA), the project will directly support rural communities in Karbala, Najaf, and Muthanna-areas heavily impacted by drought, land degradation, and water scarcity. Key components of SRVALI include: Upgrading irrigation and water efficiency systems Deploying solar-powered irrigation Rehabilitating degraded farmland Strengthening Water User Associations Empowering women and youth Introducing digital tools and early warning systems Senior Iraqi officials including Environment Minister Dr. Halo Al-Askari, Water Resources Minister Dr. Aoun Diab Al-Abdullah, and Agriculture Minister Eng. Abbas Jabr Al-Maliki reaffirmed their commitment to the project, describing it as vital for Iraq's climate adaptation, food security, and transition to a green economy. UN Deputy Special Representative Ghulam Mohamed Isaczai welcomed Iraq's first-ever GCF-backed initiative as a milestone in national climate finance, supporting inclusive and sustainable development. Mr. Dongyu emphasised that water is at the heart of climate resilience and praised Iraq's growing leadership in global sustainability platforms. Full text of statement from FAO: Iraqi Government and FAO Launch $39-Million Climate Resilience Project As part of his visit to Baghdad, Iraq, the Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Mr. QU Dongyu, together with key Iraqi ministries, today launched the Green Climate Fund (GCF)-funded project titled "Strengthening Climate Resilience of Vulnerable Agricultural Livelihoods in Southern Iraq" (SRVALI). The announcement took place on the sidelines of the 5th Baghdad International Water Conference, in the presence of senior government officials, international partners and United Nations representatives. With a total investment of USD 39 million, the SRVALI project aims to directly benefit rural households in the governorates of Karbala, Najaf, and Muthanna, regions increasingly affected by drought, land degradation, and water scarcity. The project includes generous co-financing from the Government of Canada and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). Mr. Dongyu emphasized that the SRVALI project is a testament to Iraq's strong national ownership, inter-ministerial coordination, and efforts to deliver sustainable solutions to those most affected by climate change. He commended the Ministries of Environment, Water Resources, Planning, and Agriculture for their exemplary partnership throughout the project's development. Iraqi Minister of Environment, H.E. Dr. Halo Al-Askari, highlighted that addressing climate change is a top priority for the Iraqi government, integral to the transition towards a sustainable green economy and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, including the eradication of hunger and poverty. The Minister of Water Resources, H.E. Dr. Aoun Diab Al-Abdullah, stated that the project represents a significant step toward achieving development goals through field interventions and sustainable infrastructure development. He affirmed the Ministry's full commitment to supporting the project's efficient implementation in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders, ensuring benefits for Iraq's water and agricultural sectors. The initiative encompasses upgrading irrigation systems to enhance water use efficiency, deploying solar-powered irrigation solutions, reclaiming degraded farmlands, and promoting sustainable land and water management practices. Additionally, it focuses on strengthening Water User Associations, empowering rural women and youth, and introducing digital tools and early warning systems to mitigate risks and build resilience. Minister of Agriculture, H.E. Eng. Abbas Jabr Al-Maliki, noted that the project's launch results from extensive collaboration with FAO and the GCF, significantly contributing to combating climate change and advancing Iraq's agricultural strategy goals. Ghulam Mohamed Isaczai, UN Deputy Special Representative, Resident Coordinator, and Humanitarian Coordinator in Iraq, remarked that establishing Iraq's first-ever GCF financing is a significant achievement in national climate finance, reflecting Iraq's dedication to building climate resilience, enhancing food security, and transitioning towards a more sustainable and inclusive economy. Mr. Dongyu concluded by highlighting that the event's timing with the Water Conference underscores that climate resilience begins with water. He reiterated FAO's commitment to supporting digital water management through tools like the FAO WaPOR platform and promoting community-level water governance through climate-smart solutions. This event also marks Iraq's growing prominence on the international stage, showcasing leadership and vision through initiatives such as the Hand-in-Hand Initiative, the One Country One Priority Product platform, and the World Food Forum. (Source: FAO)


Iraqi News
26-05-2025
- General
- Iraqi News
Baghdad, FAO launch $39 million climate resilience initiative
Baghdad ( – The Director-General of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), Qu Dongyu, in collaboration with Iraqi ministries, announced on Monday the launch of a new initiative supported by the Green Climate Fund (GCF). The initiative is called 'Strengthening Climate Resilience of Vulnerable Agricultural Livelihoods in Southern Iraq' (SRVALI). The announcement was made on the sidelines of the 5th Baghdad International Water Conference, where senior government officials, foreign partners, and United Nations representatives attended, according to a statement released by FAO. With a total investment of $39 million, the SRVALI initiative intends to directly help families in the countryside in the Iraqi provinces of Karbala, Najaf, and Muthanna, which are increasingly affected by drought, land degradation, and water shortages. The initiative involves considerable joint funding from the Canadian government and the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA). Dongyu emphasized that the initiative demonstrates Iraq's inter-ministerial collaboration and attempts to provide sustainable solutions to people affected by climate change. Dongyu also praised the Iraqi ministries of environment, water resources, planning, and agriculture for their outstanding collaboration during the initiative's development. The campaign includes improving irrigation systems to increase water efficiency, using solar-powered irrigation technologies, restoring damaged farmlands, and promoting sustainable land and water management practices. Furthermore, the initiative aims to empower rural women and young adults by bringing digital tools and early warning systems to reduce risks and increase resilience.


Agriland
23-04-2025
- General
- Agriland
Pope Francis urged us not to forget the ‘family farmers'
The passing of Pope Francis reminds us of the 'rare moral clarity' he brought to discussions on agri-food systems, according to the director-general of the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations. Dr Qu Dongyu said that Pope Francis consistently reminded the world that 'food is not simply a commodity — it is a right'. Pope Francis, who was 88, passed away on Easter Monday (April 21) and will be laid to rest on Saturday in Rome. Pope Francis In a statement, the FAO director-general reflected on what the late pontiff taught us in relation to food. 'Food is not merely a matter of logistics or productivity — it is a matter of human dignity. It is not confined to supply chains or economic reports, but touches the sacredness of life itself. 'Food is about people, about the communities we build and the cultures we carry. It is about compassion, and the unbreakable bonds that connect us. 'When we commit to feeding the world, we do not simply fill stomachs — we honour the soul of humanity, especially for the vulnerable and marginalised,' Dr Dongyu said. Pope Francis meeting with FAO director-general QU Dongyu at the Vatican City in 2023. Image: FAO/Vatican The FAO director-general said that he was honoured to meet Pope Francis personally on several occasions. In 2022, the pope praised FAO's work to support vulnerable populations during a period marked by conflict, economic instability, and a continuing global pandemic. 'Pope Francis placed great value in the humility of those who toil silently. He called on us not to forget them. Not to forget the family farmers, especially small producers, the rural women, the hungry child. 'He reminded us that each of these stories is the story of the world. We must not leave anyone behind,' Dr Dongyu said. 'In the long sweep of human striving, there are few struggles more noble than the effort to feed another. Pope Francis reminded us that this duty is not performed through charity alone, but through justice and investment. 'He saw in the simple act of eating a profound moral gesture, one that unites the living with those who came before, with the hands that sowed, and the hopes that endured,' he added. Food The FAO director-general said that along with sustainability and transformation in food systems, the late pope also placed importance on dignity. 'He taught us that to waste food is to forget the farmer. To turn away from hunger is to betray our common humanity. 'We must turn our collective rhetoric into concrete actions to ensure the 'Four Betters' for all: better production, better nutrition, a better environment and a better life. 'He spoke not as a ruler, but as a witness. And in doing so, he called us all — leaders, farmers, consumers — to do something extremely precious: he called on us to care. 'We must care enough to ensure a better, more foods-secure future for present and future generations,' Dr Dongyu said.
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Quick! Revive tired eyes with this roll-on caffeine serum — it's down to a record-low $12
Looking a little run down, no matter how much sleep you get? Feeling puffy? The solution to your tired-eye woes might be in your morning cup of joe. Caffeine is an emerging element in many skin-care formulas, especially those that work to brighten and rejuvenate zonked-out areas, like under your eyes. Amazon's top-selling Dongyu 5% Caffeine Eye Serum is on sale for $12 in a limited-time Lightning Deal, and it contains a pleasant pop of the ingredient aimed at refreshing dark circles, smoothing fine lines and providing lasting hydration. High-end eye serums can set you back a pretty penny, but at just under $12, this eye brightener is an all-time low, according to our price trackers. So even if you just can't help being a night owl, you don't have to spend a ton of money trying to look like a fresh, well-rested early bird. Do you wake up looking even more tired than when you went to sleep? Does your "beauty rest" end with dark circles and puffy eyes, no matter how many hours you manage to conk out for? Dongyu 5% Caffeine Eye Serum can help you look rested no matter how much shut-eye you actually get. It contains hyaluronic acid — known for its moisturizing, age-combating properties — along with niacinamide (which can help prevent dark circles thanks to its antioxidant capabilities), hexapeptide (thought to have hydrating, wrinkle-reducing properties) and, most importantly, caffeine! This caffeine doesn't come in a mug, of course. But does caffeine in a cream really wake up your skin? There is evidence! "After four weeks, the skin around the right eye of all the subjects experienced a reduction in the depth of wrinkles and dark circles, and from a subjective point of view, the appearance and elasticity of the skin were improved," concluded one investigation of caffeine used on the under eyes. Caffeine also has antioxidant properties, so it may help protect your skin from damaging UV rays and pollution. The brand suggests applying the serum once in the morning and once at night for the best results. Thanks to the stainless steel rollerball applicator, it's easy to evenly roll it onto the skin. More than 4,700 reviewers have given Dongyu 5% Caffeine Eye Serum an eye-opening five-star rating. "It is like a mini spa for your eyes at home!" marveled one devotee. "So refreshing and the roller not only is cool to the touch, but acts as a massager, bringing blood flow to the area. Have used it for a week and can start seeing the change in puffiness. I work long hours in front of a computer, and this gel helps me alleviate my eye strain." Another mega-fan shared why they decided to try the serum: "Problem: Waking up with puffy, raccoon-like eyes was my daily struggle. Solution: A dab of this magic under the eyes. Result: I look a decade younger — no exaggeration! Seriously, it's a game changer." A similarly minded shopper agreed: "After a week of use, I can definitely say this caffeine serum made me look as if I took away 20 years from my face." One intrepid adventurer wrote that the serum is an invaluable travel buddy. "The compact design and cooling roller-ball applicator make it perfect for on-the-go use, instantly reviving tired, jet-lagged eyes. ... Five stars for keeping me looking fresh, no matter the time zone!" A reviewer said the "instructions are confusing, but if you use skin-care products, you know what to do anyway." They added, "The rollerball made it easy to apply and it soaks in right away when I rub it in. My eyes started to get less puffy within a day or two. ... Works quickly." "I use it day and night and, for me (a 75-year-old), it really helps," added a final fan. "The only thing is it has a silver coating on the below-eye area where you dispense it. Until it wears off, you may have a small area of silver [coloring] below your eye, but it's not a big deal. Easy enough to remove and that coating wears off soon enough." The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication. If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)
Yahoo
14-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Quick! Revive tired eyes with this roll-on caffeine serum, down to a record $12
Looking a little run down, no matter how much sleep you get? Feeling puffy? The solution to your tired-eye woes might be in your morning cup of joe. Caffeine is an emerging element in many skin-care formulas, especially those that work to brighten and rejuvenate zonked-out areas, like under your eyes. Amazon's top-selling Dongyu 5% Caffeine Eye Serum is on sale for $12 in a limited-time Lightning Deal, and it contains a pleasant pop of the ingredient aimed at refreshing dark circles, smoothing fine lines and providing lasting hydration. High-end eye serums can set you back a pretty penny, but at just under $12, this eye brightener is an all-time low, according to our price trackers. So even if you just can't help being a night owl, you don't have to spend a ton of money trying to look like a fresh, well-rested early bird. Do you wake up looking even more tired than when you went to sleep? Does your "beauty rest" end with dark circles and puffy eyes, no matter how many hours you manage to conk out for? Dongyu 5% Caffeine Eye Serum can help you look rested no matter how much shut-eye you actually get. It contains hyaluronic acid — known for its moisturizing, age-combating properties — along with niacinamide (which can help prevent dark circles thanks to its antioxidant capabilities), hexapeptide (thought to have hydrating, wrinkle-reducing properties) and, most importantly, caffeine! This caffeine doesn't come in a mug, of course. But does caffeine in a cream really wake up your skin? There is evidence! "After four weeks, the skin around the right eye of all the subjects experienced a reduction in the depth of wrinkles and dark circles, and from a subjective point of view, the appearance and elasticity of the skin were improved," concluded one investigation of caffeine used on the under eyes. Caffeine also has antioxidant properties, so it may help protect your skin from damaging UV rays and pollution. The brand suggests applying the serum once in the morning and once at night for the best results. Thanks to the stainless steel rollerball applicator, it's easy to evenly roll it onto the skin. More than 4,700 reviewers have given Dongyu 5% Caffeine Eye Serum an eye-opening five-star rating. "It is like a mini spa for your eyes at home!" marveled one devotee. "So refreshing and the roller not only is cool to the touch, but acts as a massager, bringing blood flow to the area. Have used it for a week and can start seeing the change in puffiness. I work long hours in front of a computer, and this gel helps me alleviate my eye strain." Another mega-fan shared why they decided to try the serum: "Problem: Waking up with puffy, raccoon-like eyes was my daily struggle. Solution: A dab of this magic under the eyes. Result: I look a decade younger — no exaggeration! Seriously, it's a game changer." A similarly minded shopper agreed: "After a week of use, I can definitely say this caffeine serum made me look as if I took away 20 years from my face." One intrepid adventurer wrote that the serum is an invaluable travel buddy. "The compact design and cooling roller-ball applicator make it perfect for on-the-go use, instantly reviving tired, jet-lagged eyes. ... Five stars for keeping me looking fresh, no matter the time zone!" A reviewer said the "instructions are confusing, but if you use skin-care products, you know what to do anyway." They added, "The rollerball made it easy to apply and it soaks in right away when I rub it in. My eyes started to get less puffy within a day or two. ... Works quickly." "I use it day and night and, for me (a 75-year-old), it really helps," added a final fan. "The only thing is it has a silver coating on the below-eye area where you dispense it. Until it wears off, you may have a small area of silver [coloring] below your eye, but it's not a big deal. Easy enough to remove and that coating wears off soon enough." The reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication. If you have Amazon Prime, you'll get free shipping, of course. Not yet a member? No problem. You can sign up for your free 30-day trial here. (And by the way, those without Prime still get free shipping on orders of $35 or more.)