According to a report compiled by Celebrity Media based on United Nations News: The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) held a grand ceremony today (16th) at its headquarters in Rome, Italy, to commemorate World Food Day and its 80th anniversary, reaffirming its lasting mission to eradicate hunger and build resilient agricultural and food systems. Global leaders gathered to promote food security and peaceful development.
The event was chaired by FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu, attracting global political figures, religious leaders, and representatives of international organizations. Attendees included Pope Leo XIV, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Italian Deputy Prime Minister Antonio Tajani, China’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs Han Jun (reading a congratulatory letter on behalf of President Xi Jinping), UN Secretary-General António Guterres (via video message), King Letsie III of Lesotho, Queen Letizia of Spain, President Yamandú Orsi Martínez of Uruguay, and former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, among others.
UN Secretary-General: Hunger Is Being Weaponized: UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern in his video message: “Global progress in fighting hunger is far too slow, and in some regions, even regressing. It is outrageous that hunger is being weaponized. We must unite across borders, sectors, and communities to achieve a world free of hunger.”
Together for Better Food and a Better Future: This year’s World Food Day, themed “Together for Better Food, Better Future,” calls for global cooperation to tackle multiple challenges posed by hunger, climate crises, and conflicts. For eighty years, FAO has upheld the spirit of collaboration and shared responsibility and will continue to promote efficient, inclusive, and sustainable agricultural and food systems to create a fair, healthy, and resilient future for future generations.
FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu stated in his speech: “Hunger knows no borders, and food security challenges require global solidarity. Leaders and people of all nations must uphold a shared belief: the right to food is a fundamental human right, and peace is the prerequisite for food security.”
Peace and Humanity — A Shared Responsibility of the World: In his keynote speech, Pope Leo XIV emphasized the importance of peace and humanity: “We cannot ignore those who lack access to clean water, food, medical care, and education. Ukraine, Gaza, Haiti, Afghanistan, Yemen, South Sudan… the suffering of these regions must be the pain of all humankind. The international community must not look away; we must respond to their cries with a united heart.”
China’s Support and Global Cooperation Vision: President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China conveyed a congratulatory message through Minister Han Jun of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, stating that China will continue to support FAO’s work and actively promote the implementation of the United Nations 2030 Sustainable Development Goals: “China is willing to work with the international community to implement the Global Development Initiative and promote fair and inclusive international food cooperation.”
Host Country Calls for Humanitarian Assistance: Italian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Antonio Tajani stressed in his speech: “In times of war and turmoil, we must do everything possible to alleviate the suffering of the people of Gaza. Opening the Rafah crossing and ensuring smooth entry of humanitarian aid is a shared responsibility of humankind. Italy will continue to do its part.”
Commemoration and Historical Legacy: Since its founding in 1945, FAO has been dedicated to eradicating hunger, promoting food security, and advancing sustainable agricultural development. World Food Day was established in 1979 and first observed in 1981. It has become one of the most widely celebrated international observances in the UN system. Every year on October 16, more than 150 countries hold events to remind humanity of our shared responsibility—to protect land and water, support farmers, and ensure everyone’s right to food.
