Policymakers, diplomats, and government officials from all eight Amazon countries gathered in Brasília, Brazil, to strengthen regional cooperation on food systems transformation and climate action. Organized through a partnership involving international and regional organizations, the event aimed to enhance capacities, share experiences, and identify opportunities for coordinated action across the Amazon Basin. The discussions built on recent regional commitments and momentum generated through major declarations and international climate negotiations.
Participants emphasized that food security and climate action are deeply interconnected and cannot be addressed through separate policy frameworks. While Amazon countries have already established national climate commitments, food security strategies, and sustainable development plans, many continue to face challenges in translating policies into coordinated action at the local and regional levels. The meeting focused on improving policy integration, developing shared indicators, and strengthening cooperation among different government sectors.
The gathering also highlighted practical examples of sustainable food systems. Delegates visited family farming initiatives in Brazil that supply locally produced food to school meal programs, demonstrating how public procurement policies can support small-scale farmers while improving food security and nutrition. The visit showcased the role of technical assistance, financing mechanisms, and agroecological practices in promoting sustainable agricultural development.
Countries shared diverse national experiences and priorities related to food systems and climate resilience. Brazil highlighted social participation and public food procurement programs, while Ecuador presented its integration of food systems into national climate commitments. Peru emphasized the impact of climate change on rural food production, and Bolivia discussed efforts to combine bioeconomy approaches with social inclusion and ecosystem restoration. Colombia focused on agroecology and Indigenous knowledge, while Guyana highlighted low-carbon development strategies and regional innovation opportunities. Suriname stressed the need for climate finance and institutional strengthening, and Venezuela showcased Indigenous-led food innovation initiatives.
A central outcome of the meeting was the development of a shared vision for Amazon food systems and climate action. This vision prioritizes the participation of Indigenous Peoples and local communities, supports territorial rights and ecosystem stewardship, and promotes locally driven solutions. It recognizes the interdependence of forests, rivers, biodiversity, livelihoods, and food systems, while emphasizing sustainable resource management, climate adaptation, and socio-environmental resilience.
Participants also identified several priority areas for future regional cooperation. These include strengthening governance mechanisms, promoting sustainable bioeconomy initiatives, expanding agroforestry and landscape restoration, enhancing research and innovation, building technical capacities, and mobilizing financing through climate and development funding mechanisms. Proposed initiatives aim to accelerate food systems transformation, improve climate resilience, create sustainable livelihoods, and deepen collaboration among Amazon countries.
The workshop represents an important step toward building a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable Amazon region. By integrating food systems transformation with climate action, Amazon nations are seeking to create long-term solutions that protect ecosystems, strengthen food security, support local communities, and contribute to global climate goals.
