KABUL (TOLO News): The World Food Program (WFP) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations have reported a growing trend of food insecurity in 22 countries worldwide, including Afghanistan.
In the joint report by these organizations, it is said that conflict, climate crises, and economic pressures will place millions of people in critical conditions in the coming months.
A section of the WFP and FAO report reads: “Afghanistan is among the 22 countries and territories classified as Hunger Hotspots.”
Economic expert Mir Shakib Mir said, “Afghanistan, with its high poverty level, unfortunately, needs international assistance to prevent the further impoverishment of its people and to avoid worsening economic issues. There is a need for an understanding with UN agencies, and all differences with them should be set aside so that aid is not reduced, and people do not suffer further.”
Several economic experts say that to prevent the worsening of this situation, the Islamic Emirate should establish closer cooperation with global aid organizations.
They believe that to eradicate food insecurity in Afghanistan, investment in agricultural infrastructure is necessary.
“Undoubtedly, there are various factors contributing to food insecurity, including conflicts, droughts, and unfortunately, the majority of people in Afghanistan lack access to three quality meals a day, all due to poverty and unemployment,” said Abdul Naseer Reshtia, an economic affairs expert.
The Ministry of Economy stated that combating food insecurity and reducing poverty are among its top priorities.
The ministry emphasizes that for the country’s economic growth and development, it is essential for the international community to lift economic restrictions and release Afghanistan’s frozen assets.
Abdul Latif Nazari, the Deputy Minister of Economy, said: “The international community has a moral and legal responsibility to help lift banking restrictions, release the Afghan people’s assets, and remove sanctions so that economic growth, development, and large-scale national projects can take shape in the country.”
Recently, the Ministry of Economy held a meeting with representatives from the United Nations and the European Union to strengthen the effectiveness and transparency of activities by non-governmental organizations and non-Islamic Emirate entities.