BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Nov 6, CMC – Bolivian Rene Orellana Halkyer has assumed the position of Assistant Director-General of the United Nations Food and Agriculture (FAO) and Regional Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean.
FAO said that Halkyer’s appointment follows a rigorous global competitive selection process.
Halkyer, who holds a doctorate in Law from the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands, said that underscfred the importance of Latin America and the Caribbean’s capacity to spearhead a transition toward more sustainable food and agriculture systems.
“The region offers unique conditions to drive development, innovation, and social well-being. We will work to promote strategic investments aligned with global initiatives such as Hand-in-Hand, to strengthen productivity, boost rural economies, and improve the quality of life of communities.
”We will continue working closely with all countries in the region, the private sector, development banks, and our international partners to advance solutions that ensure food security, and a prosperous and sustainable future,” he added.
FAO said that throughout his extensive career, he has been deeply committed to sustainable development, transforming agrifood systems, climate action, international cooperation, and enhancing public governance across Latin America and the Caribbean.
Halkyer has worked as an advisor to the Executive Directorate for Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Paraguay, Peru, and Uruguay at the World Bank Group.
CMC/2025
