The news from India, where the 64th Council Meeting of the International Sugar Organisation, ISO is holding is that the head of Nigeria’s delegation has emerged as the chairman of the organisation’s administrative committee. Mr. Kamar Barkin, executive secretary/chief executive officer of the National Sugar Development Council was until his election at the meeting in New Delhi, India, the vice chairman of the committee. He was elected into that position at the last meeting which was held in the United Kingdom in 2023.
As chairman of the Administrative Committee, Mr. Barkin will oversee operations of the world body, as well as make recommendations for policy improvements and up-to-date procedural information.
A statement signed by Barkin states that “This appointment represents a major recognition for Nigeria. It provides an opportunity to further contribute to ISO’s policies, decisions, and initiatives, deepen our collaboration with leading sugar producers and producing countries and better advocate for Nigeria’s interests.”
Information from the meeting said the Sugar Development Council boss must have impressed participants with his activities, particularly from last year as vice chairman and during preparation for the meeting in India during which he reportedly chaired several crucial meetings to make the meeting proper a success and also during the main 64th ISO Council session.
At the just concluded meeting in India, Mr. Barkin is said to have played a key role in the deliberations and business sessions during the three-day event.
The ISO is an intergovernmental body dedicated to enhancing conditions in the global sugar market. It plays strategic roles in addressing challenges in the industry and enabling cooperation towards maintaining industry stability and sustainability. It has 88 members from across 110 Sugar producing countries. These members are responsible for 92% of sugar exports and 37% of imports. The ISO, headquartered in London, discussed the promotion of the development and adoption of sugar as sustainable biofuel to complement efforts at reducing greenhouse emission globally.