VATICAN CITY – Pope Francis has reinforced the need for the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) to continue to combat hunger and guarantee access to fresh water for all. The Pope’s comments came during the 39^th International Conference of the FAO, which is running until June 13.

 When receiving FAO bosses Pope Francis reminded the organisation that access to food and water is an imperative right for people across the globe, and that they must focus on achieving food security, rather than just the compilation of statistics regarding the situation.

 “The FAO must not neglect the obligation to reduce hunger and prevent malnutrition,” said Francis. “We must also guarantee that everyone has access to water, today and in the future.”

 The pontiff continued by saying that attitudes needed to change concerning the globe’s resources and if countries and organisations work together in the future, food security for all can be achieved.

 “Food security must be achieved,” said Pope Francis. “Let us modify our relationship with natural resources, land use, consumption, and eliminate waste: thus we shall defeat hunger. The Church is committed to promoting the change of attitude necessary for the good of future generations.” 

 Overall, a majority figure of 72 of the 129 participating countries have achieved the Millennium Development Goal to reduce hunger, however at a special ceremony this week, 15 states including China, Bolivia and Costa Rice, were singled out for their outstanding achievements in upping food security.

 Earlier in the week, during a speech at the opening of the 39^th International Conference, President of Italy, Sergio Mattarella used the opportunity to promote the need for a united Europe, willing to combat the trafficking of people and goods and support the campaign to end hunger.

 “We have the commitment to accommodate those who cry for help, to fight against smugglers and traffickers and unscrupulous criminals,” said Mattarella. "The road ahead remains long. We cannot forget that 800 million people, including 160 million children under five, still live in despair at having no food to eat.”