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G8 calls for increased food security

(Agencies)
Updated: 2009-07-09 13:34

L'AQUILA, Rome: World leaders at the Group of Eight (G8) summit say they want to promote investment in agriculture as a way of combating hunger in the face of the economic crisis.

Related readings:  Bob Geldof grills Berlusconi on aid ahead of G8  Oxfam calls on G8 to increase aid to poor farmers

The G8 is expected to expand talks on food security when they meet with countries with emerging economies and with African countries over the next two days. Officials have said that they are discussing the creation of an agricultural development fund for Africa.

Leaders said in a statement Wednesday they want to "stimulate sustainable growth of world food production" with a particular focus on small farmers, as well as the traditional food aid.

They note that food prices remain high, even if they have receded from mid-2008 highs.