US - L'Aquila Food Security Initiative

Media Note
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
February 2, 2012

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Under U.S. leadership of the L’Aquila Food Security Initiative (AFSI) in 2012, Acting Special Representative for Global Food Security Jonathan Shrier will welcome global food security representatives to Washington February 2-3 to advance mutual accountability and coordination of efforts in fulfilling our leaders’ food security commitments.

Global leaders, including President Obama, endorsed the L’Aquila Joint Statement on Global Food Security at the 2009 G8 Summit, marking a turning point for international efforts to achieve sustainable global food security. Under the Joint Statement, agreement was reached to a take a comprehensive approach to ensuring food security; coordinate effectively; support country-owned processes and plans; engage multilateral institutions in advancing efforts to promote food security worldwide; and deliver on sustained and accountable commitments.

This year marks the final year of the AFSI donor governments’ pledge to mobilize $22 billion USD toward global food security over three years. Food security is closely linked to economic growth, social progress, political stability, and peace. This is why we must show real progress in delivering on commitments to improve food security. AFSI participants convene twice annually to review progress toward meeting commitments, including financial pledges, and to discuss best practices and lessons learned.

The event will be held at the Department of State, bringing together over 50 food security officials from 30 countries, and international and regional organizations. Participants will hear from civil society and partner countries, and will discuss coordination efforts between partner and donor governments; investments in research to improve food security; tracking progress toward meeting the L’Aquila commitments; and using Managing for Development Results to enhance the impact of investments in food security.

ENDS

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