On the occasion of the World Rural Development Day 2025, I extend my heartfelt greetings to all our esteemed Member Countries, valued partners, and dedicated stakeholders for their unwavering commitment to rural development.

This day reinforces our collective commitment to uplifting rural communities, empowering youth and women, and advancing inclusive, sustainable development. AARDO remains dedicated through it’s Strategic Framework, ambitious programmes and initiatives to promoting knowledge sharing, capacity building, and strategic partnerships to tackle the challenges faced by rural areas.

AARDO will continue to champion technology diplomacy and transfers as it believes that science and technology are vital drivers of rural transformation. They strengthen local economies, elevate living standards, and foster innovation that empowers communities to prosper within their own regions. This approach makes rural areas more attractive, self-sustaining, and further helps alleviate pressure on urban centers.

Let us unite to build resilient, self-reliant, and thriving rural communities, throughout Africa and Asia, where the majority of their population lives in villages and have to be included in the overall socio-economic development, promised by SDG’s.

Warm wishes on World Rural Development Day 2025!

-- DR. MANOJ NARDEOSINGH, SECRETARY GENERAL, AARDO