FAO Celebrates 80 Years: Flag Flies High at 7,000 M in Kyrgyzstan to Raise Awareness for Climate Change

On October 16, 2025, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations marks its 80th anniversary. This isn’t just a celebration of the past; it’s a moment to reflect on the ongoing fight against hunger and the push for sustainable agricultural systems.

In Kyrgyzstan, this anniversary is also a nod to years of teamwork aimed at better farming, nutrition, and overall quality of life. Since its inception, FAO has been pivotal in Kyrgyzstan, offering technical help, guiding policy decisions, and fostering skills and cooperation.

As part of the celebrations, a team of climbers from Kyrgyzstan scaled Lenin Peak, raising the FAO flag at the summit. Standing tall at 7,134 meters, Lenin Peak attracted climbers who braved tough conditions, including strong winds, to draw attention to climate change’s impact on mountain communities and their food security.

Lenin Peak is notable for its history, having been first climbed in 1934. The recent ascent was a testament to teamwork and endurance. Alisa Kuchuko, Alexey Ivanov, and Roman Kuropyatnikov each played a role in raising the flag, representing a united effort in the face of adversity.

Kyrgyzstan’s high-altitude environment makes it particularly vulnerable to climate change. Oleg Guchgeldiyev, the FAO Representative in Kyrgyzstan, highlighted how rising temperatures affect rain patterns, leading to drought and impacting agriculture. “Mountain ecosystems are crucial for water and food supply, yet they face increasing pressures,” he said.

Climate risks like droughts and glacier melt are already reshaping food systems and the lives of many. Unpredictable weather disrupts growing seasons, resulting in crop failures. Central Asia relies heavily on melting glaciers for water, and if trends continue, we may face severe shortages in the coming years.

FAO is actively working to help Kyrgyzstan and other countries in the region adapt to these challenges. Its projects focus on sustainable resource management, water conservation, and training farmers to adopt climate-friendly practices. For instance, a recent FAO report indicated that regions implementing these practices have seen improved yields, even under difficult conditions.

During an April 2025 conference in Bishkek, FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu stressed that mountain areas are under pressure but also hold great potential for climate-resilient growth. Innovations in sustainable farming are starting to show promising results, reflecting the resilience and capability of mountain communities.

Raising the FAO flag on Lenin Peak symbolizes more than an anniversary; it’s a call for unity. It reminds us that achieving food security and sustainable development relies on collective efforts to protect our fragile mountain ecosystems now and in the future.

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