G20 Summit: UAE pledges $100 million to fight global hunger and poverty

The UAE is attending the annual G20 Summit as a guest country for the fifth time. This year, HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed announced that the UAE is ready to allocate $100 million to the Global Coalition against Hunger and Poverty.

Speaking on behalf of HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, President of the UAE, Sheikh Khaled praised the formation of the global alliance and noted that the coalition is going to help shape policies that offer sustainable solutions and resources.

Food insecurity is a “stain that shames humanity”

The G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, has brought together leaders of some of the largest and fastest-progressing economies to discuss global challenges. It is being organised against a backdrop of raging conflicts in different regions and the climate crisis.

During the conference, the UAE delegation spoke about the Gulf state’s dedication to supporting global campaigns to combat hunger and poverty at regional and international levels, reinforcing efforts to promote peace and prosperity.

In his opening remarks, Brazilian President Lula described food insecurity as a “stain that shames humanity”. “Hunger and poverty are not the result of scarcity of natural phenomena … they are the product of political decisions,” he added.

Before the Summit, HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed and President Lula met and discussed strategies to enhance bilateral relations. They also noted the signing of key agreements in investment and international cooperation.

The Global Coalition against Hunger and Poverty focuses on coordinating efforts to tackle some of the most urgent issues. It is being backed by multiple countries, international organisations, and philanthropic groups such as the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

UAE’s pioneering role in global food security efforts

In October 2024, Mariam Almheiri, Member of the International Humanitarian and Philanthropic Council, stressed the UAE’s leading position among the countries at the forefront of building a food secure future for all.

UAE’s pioneering role in food security efforts springs from the solid humanitarian approach established by the Founding Father Shiekh Zayed bin Sultan. Under the leadership of HH Sheikh Mohamed, the UAE is paying great attention to bolstering global food security.

The programmes for food security that emanated from the UAE embody the country’s global responsibility in combating the challenges of food security, amounting to more than Dh18 billion, as per official media reports.