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China sets example to world in beating hunger: WFP

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2009-11-10 09:16

BEIJING: The United Nations World Food Program (WFP) on Monday hailed the declaration of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation, adding that China has set an example to the world that hunger can be beaten in a generation.

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"I applaud the declaration underlining the important role that investment in food security, agriculture and infrastructure plays in meeting the food needs of Africa's people," said WFP executive director Josette Sheeran in a statement issued Monday, according to the WFP China Office.

"China's own success in addressing malnutrition and bolstering food security stands as an example to the world that hunger can be beaten in a generation, especially when small farmers are given access to credit and markets," it said.

"WFP is looking to replicate this success by supporting small farmers in regions like sub-Saharan Africa, by for example, last year purchasing US$427 million worth of food from farmers in 15 countries across the continent," it said.

The statement also noted that WFP had worked for decades to help people in China and Africa access the food they need to live healthy, productive lives.

"In the midst of humanitarian emergencies, WFP has also rebuilt roads, ports and airstrips to reduce the cost of delivering humanitarian aid," it said.

The Forum on China-Africa Cooperation closed on Monday in Egypt.