Xi pledges support for UN food agency

President Xi Jinping has congratulated the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization on the 80th anniversary of its founding, and expressed China's commitment to supporting the international body in playing an important role in the food and agricultural sector in the world.

In a congratulatory message sent to the FAO on Thursday, Xi highlighted the significant role the FAO has played in ensuring global food security, promoting rural development and food system transformation, and improving the living standards of people worldwide.

Noting that the Chinese government attaches great importance to food security, Xi said that the nation is committed to addressing the food needs of its over 1.4 billion population by itself, and has also provided assistance to countries in need within its capacity, thereby contributing its strength toward global food security.

Xi expressed the country's commitment to continuing its support for the FAO in playing an important role in the international food and agricultural sector. He said that China is willing to work with the international community to implement the Global Development Initiative, advance the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity, ultimately contributing more to the well-being of people across the globe.

The FAO was established on Oct 16, 1945. China is one of its founding members.

Cao Desheng - China Daily