KHOBAR: Sustainable agriculture and global food security were on the agenda at the 9th meeting of the Agricultural Chief Scientists (MACS) of the G20. High-level agricultural scientists from the G20 countries, invited guest countries and international organizations attended the meeting to adopt a communique that will be delivered to ministers of agriculture. Delegates expressed their intention to promote cooperation in sustainable agricultural productivity and global food security. The meeting focused on global issues such as sustainable agriculture development in drylands, promoting agricultural productivity through cutting-edge technologies, and the relationship between water, energy and food. Delegates recognized the importance of agriculture in drylands for livelihoods and for global food security, and encouraged ministers to agree on a way forward to develop this. Attendees stressed the importance of science for developing affordable and cutting-edge agricultural technologies to address global food security and improve agri-food systems. They emphasized the need for developing and implementing new agricultural technologies in partnership with farmers and for public-sector policy and investment to ensure equitable use of new agricultural technologies. Aware of the global demands on water and energy to meet food production needs, the high-level group agreed on approaching a better understanding of the interdependence of these elements. This is critical for developing policies that enable resources to be used efficiently, to improve livelihoods, ensure food security and optimize sustainable economic benefits.