Libya has been a member of FAO since 24 November 1953. However, the FAO Office in Libya was not established until September 2002. Its mission conforms to the mandate of the mother organization in providing technical assistance, through various activities and projects, to help modernize and improve agriculture, forestry and fisheries in Libya. The agency also works towards enhancing the development capacities of its local counterparts. As well as encouraging and facilitating the countrys partici pation in regional and international forums. The office is also active in mobilizing Libyan resources and fostering partnership with key regional communities and funding organs to enhance food security and to combat hunger and poverty.