Researchers led by Utrecht University have secured a €4 million European grant to develop artificial intelligence technologies aimed at improving sustainable agriculture and enhancing crop resilience.

The project will develop advanced AI models capable of predicting the most effective interactions between crops and naturally occurring soil microbes. By leveraging these insights, researchers aim to improve crop health and productivity while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. The initiative addresses growing global challenges related to climate change, soil degradation, and food security.

The consortium brings together leading European universities, research institutes, and a Dutch data technology company to accelerate innovation in precision agriculture and sustainable food production through artificial intelligence.

The initiative further reinforces the Netherlands' global leadership in agricultural innovation and AI-driven research, while creating new opportunities for international collaboration in sustainable agriculture and food security.

Official Source:
Utrecht University

The Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Netherlands, H.E. Mr. Shahir K. Al Khaniny, received H.E. Sheikh Mohammed Belal, Managing Director of the Common Fund for Commodities (CFC), for discussions on strengthening cooperation in global food security, water security, resilient agricultural value chains, and .sustainable rural development

The meeting addressed the growing vulnerability of global agricultural supply chains amid geopolitical tensions, rising energy and input costs, climate-related pressures, and disruptions to major trade routes. The two sides also discussed the resulting impact on fertilizer availability, agricultural production costs, and the resilience of food systems.

The discussions explored opportunities for closer engagement with relevant Saudi institutions, including the Saudi Fund for Development, as well as potential areas of complementarity with the Global Water Organization, established at Saudi Arabia’s initiative and headquartered in Riyadh.

Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close dialogue and identifying practical avenues for cooperation in agricultural finance, support for agricultural SMEs, local value addition, and the development of more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable commodity value chains.

:Source
Common Fund for Commodities (CFC), “CFC and Saudi Arabia Discuss Cooperation on Global Food Security, Water Security and Resilient Agricultural Value Chains,” published on 16 July 2026.

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Eng. Waleed ElKhereiji, participated in the Third High-Level Forum on Regional Security and Cooperation between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the European Union (EU), held in Brussels on behalf of Minister of Foreign Affairs Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah.

The forum focused on strengthening security and strategic cooperation between the GCC and the EU, while also reviewing ongoing efforts to promote international peace and security and enhance coordination on regional and global issues.

Saudi Arabia's participation reflects the Kingdom's commitment to strengthening dialogue and cooperation with its European partners, contributing to regional stability and supporting closer political and economic relations between the GCC and the European Union.

Source:

Saudi Press Agency (SPA)

Saudi Gazette