The World Food Programme has requested India for 200,000 tonnes of rice to carry out humanitarian operations, according to a report by Mint.

The appeal comes after the UN-mediated Black Sea grain deal, which was vital for world supply and collapsed last month when Russia withdrew on the grounds that the accord’s humanitarian goals could no longer be substantiated. After India curtailed rice shipments after Russia’s action, food prices worldwide increased even more.

Presently the department of commerce, ministry of external affairs, department of revenue, department of food and public distribution, and the Food Corporation of India (FCI) are reviewing the UN request internally.

Based on the assessment of the stock position, the request is anticipated to be approved.&nbsp;&nbsp;A government official told Mint that India has never turned down a request from the World Food Program.

“The decision will be made strictly on the basis of availability of the commodity and keeping the country’s food security in mind. We have agreed at the World Trade Organization (WTO) that we will not impose any export restriction on the WFP. We have come up with rice export restrictions but they will be set aside when it comes to the request made by WFP,” Mint quotes the official as saying.

In order to process the aid, WFP has formally requested the country-of-origin certificate, commercial invoice, sanitary and phytosanitary certificate, as well as crop year certification.

Earlier, WFP-chartered ships supplied more than 380,000 tonnes of wheat through several Black Sea ports as part of the Black Sea grain agreement to support operations in Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Yemen. This was vital in lowering food costs brought on by the conflict in Ukraine.

In India, the Consumer Food Price Index (CPI)—which accounts for almost to half of the total consumer price basket—measures food inflation and increased to 4.49 per cent in June 2023 from 2.96 per cent (revised) in May 2023. While core inflation estimates show that the underlying trend in inflation is intact, Morgan Stanley anticipates headline inflation to track higher than their previous assumption.

Mint cited the official saying that grain transit from Russia and Ukraine is restricted, driving up food costs globally and raising concerns about supplies.

“The price of rice coming out of Australia and the US, the next big producers, is much higher compared to elsewhere. And India has to ensure food security because the quantity that will be sought by India is enormous,” Mint quoted the official.

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The World Food Programme has requested India for 200,000 tonnes of rice to carry out humanitarian operations, according to a report by Mint. The appeal comes after the UN-mediated Black Sea grain deal, which was vital for world supply and collapsed last month when Russia withdrew on the grounds that the accord’s humanitarian goals could no longer be substantiated.

The World Food Programme has requested India for 200,000 tonnes of rice to carry out humanitarian operations, according to a report by Mint. The appeal comes after the UN-mediated Black Sea grain deal, which was vital for world supply and collapsed last month when Russia withdrew on the grounds that the accord’s humanitarian goals could no longer be substantiated. After India curtailed rice shipments after Russia’s action, food prices worldwide increased even more. Presently the department of commerce, ministry of external affairs, department of revenue, department of food and public distribution, and the Food Corporation of India (FCI) are reviewing the UN request internally. Based on the assessment of the stock position, the request is anticipated to be approved. A government official told Mint that India has never turned down a request from the World Food Program. “The decision will be made strictly on the basis of availability of the commodity and keeping the country’s food security in mind. We have agreed at the World Trade Organization (WTO) that we will not impose any export restriction on the WFP. We have come up with rice export restrictions but they will be set aside when it comes to the request made by WFP,” Mint quotes the official as saying. In order to process the aid, WFP has formally requested the country-of-origin certificate, commercial invoice, sanitary and phytosanitary certificate, as well as crop year certification. Earlier, WFP-chartered ships supplied more than 380,000 tonnes of wheat through several Black Sea ports as part of the Black Sea grain agreement to support operations in Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Somalia, and Yemen. This was vital in lowering food costs brought on by the conflict in Ukraine. In India, the Consumer Food Price Index (CPI)—which accounts for almost to half of the total consumer price basket—measures food inflation and increased to 4.49 per cent in June 2023 from 2.96 per cent (revised) in May 2023. While core inflation estimates show that the underlying trend in inflation is intact, Morgan Stanley anticipates headline inflation to track higher than their previous assumption. Mint cited the official saying that grain transit from Russia and Ukraine is restricted, driving up food costs globally and raising concerns about supplies. “The price of rice coming out of Australia and the US, the next big producers, is much higher compared to elsewhere. And India has to ensure food security because the quantity that will be sought by India is enormous,” Mint quoted the official. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Amid worsening global hunger, WFP requests India for 200,000 tonnes of rice 

United Nations agency World Food Programme (WFP), responsible for providing emergency food assistance to the crisis-stricken country of Haiti has said it will be unable to provide its full service this month.

United Nations agency World Food Programme (WFP), responsible for providing emergency food assistance to the crisis-stricken country of Haiti has said it will be unable to provide its full service this month. WFP said it has been forced to cut the number of people receiving the aid by 25 per cent in July, meaning at least 100,000 vulnerable Haitians will be without WFP support. According to a report released by the body, six months into the year, WFP's response plan in the Caribbean nation is only 16 per cent funded with the organisation requiring $121 million till the end of 2023 to make good on its promises. If the funding remains low, WFP warned it will be unable to assist 750,000 of the 2.3 million Haitians it had aimed to reach. “It’s tragic being unable to reach some of the most vulnerable Haitians this month. This could not come at a worse time, as Haitians face a multilayered humanitarian crisis, their lives and livelihoods upended by violence, insecurity, economic turmoil and climate shocks. Unless we receive immediate funding, further devastating cuts cannot be ruled out,” said the WFP’s country director for Haiti, Jean-Martin Bauer. Surging food inflation has raised the cost of feeding each person substantially, making the already-tough task, even more difficult for WFP. The programme's donors have cut funding, exacerbating the problem. Gang violence escalates problem Last year in July, the capital city of Port-au-Prince had plunged into a similar food crisis after brutal gang violence escalated in the region. In October, “catastrophic” level-five hunger conditions were reported in the city slums, usually associated with war-torn nations. The collapse of the Haitian state, and the rapid expansion of the gangs that control most of Port-au-Prince and are driving up poverty, show no signs of being resolved any time soon. Also read | Over 234 dead, thousands trapped without food, water or fuel; Haiti descends into chaos and anarchy Food insecurity According to a report released by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization in May, it was revealed that 2022 was the fourth consecutive year in which the number of people facing food crises increased rapidly. Almost 258 million people across 58 countries, or 22.7 per cent of the analysed population, faced severe hunger last year due to conflicts, climate change and the effects of the coronavirus pandemic. WATCH | WION Climate Tracker: Food crisis looms over flood hit Nigeria × According to the report, the top 10 hungriest countries in the world are -- The Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ethiopia, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Yemen, Myanmar, the Syrian Arab Republic, Sudan, Ukraine and Pakistan. "More than half of the 376,400 people in the catastrophe were in Somalia (214,100), but these extreme conditions also affected populations in South Sudan (87,000), Yemen (31,000), Afghanistan (20,300), Haiti for the first time in GRFC history (19,200), Nigeria (3,000) and Burkina Faso (1,800)," added the report. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

Funding cuts force UN to pull the plug on feeding 100,000 Haitians this month

In a joint report, two United Nations bodies, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have predicted that the food insecurity in Pakistan and Afghanistan may exacerbate. This is conditional and depends on the worsening of the economic and political crisis the two nations are experiencing.

As per Khaama Press, the two nations have been declared "early warning hotspots". The warning, as per ANI, has been issued in a report jointly published by the two bodies for the period from June to November.

<h2>What did they say?</h2>

As per the report, Afghanistan and Pakistan, along with "the Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Syrian Arab Republic, are hotspots with very high concern, and the warning is also extended to Myanmar in this edition."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/watch-ex-pakistan-army-chief-qamar-bajwa-verbally-abused-by-afghan-man-in-france-600733">Watch: Ex-Pakistan Army chief Qamar Bajwa verbally abused by ‘Afghan man’ in France</a>

The report further said that in all these areas, a high number of people are facing acute food insecurity, which is coupled with other factors.

"All these hotspots have a high number of people facing critical acute food insecurity, coupled with worsening drivers that are expected to further intensify life-threatening conditions in the coming months."

<h2>Pakistan's troubles</h2>

As per the report, between September and December 2023, some 8.5 million people in the country will probably face acute food insecurity.

Pakistan is currently witnessing terrible political turmoil. On top of that, the nation's International Monetary Fund (IMF) financial bailout has already been delayed by around seven months.

For Pakistan, whose GDP in 2021 amounted to merely $350 billion in 2021, the repayment amount of $77.5 billion over the next three years is "substantial", reports Khaama Press.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/nearly-80-afghan-school-girls-poisoned-in-taliban-ruled-afghanistan-600753">Nearly 80 Afghan school girls poisoned in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan</a>

The report predicts that Pakistan's coal and food export revenues could witness a decline if the economic and political crisis persists and the security situation in border areas continues to deteriorate.

As per the report, "The political crisis and civil unrest are likely to worsen ahead of general elections scheduled for October 2023, amid growing insecurity in the northwest of the country. A shortage of foreign reserves and a depreciating currency are diminishing the country's ability to import essential food items and energy supplies and increasing food items' prices besides causing nationwide energy cuts."

<h2>Afghanistan's distress</h2>

Almost 70 per cent of Afghanistan is struggling to afford two square meals a day. As per Khaama Press, economic and political crises are further impacting households' buying power and reducing their ability to purchase food and other essential goods.

As per a report by news agency ANI: "Afghanistan has become insular after the Taliban assumed power in August 2021."

(With inputs from agencies)

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In a joint report, two United Nations bodies, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have predicted that the food insecurity in Pakistan and Afghanistan may exacerbate.

In a joint report, two United Nations bodies, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) have predicted that the food insecurity in Pakistan and Afghanistan may exacerbate. This is conditional and depends on the worsening of the economic and political crisis the two nations are experiencing. As per Khaama Press, the two nations have been declared "early warning hotspots". The warning, as per ANI, has been issued in a report jointly published by the two bodies for the period from June to November. What did they say? As per the report, Afghanistan and Pakistan, along with "the Central African Republic, Ethiopia, Kenya, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the Syrian Arab Republic, are hotspots with very high concern, and the warning is also extended to Myanmar in this edition." Also read | Watch: Ex-Pakistan Army chief Qamar Bajwa verbally abused by ‘Afghan man’ in France The report further said that in all these areas, a high number of people are facing acute food insecurity, which is coupled with other factors. "All these hotspots have a high number of people facing critical acute food insecurity, coupled with worsening drivers that are expected to further intensify life-threatening conditions in the coming months." Pakistan's troubles As per the report, between September and December 2023, some 8.5 million people in the country will probably face acute food insecurity. Pakistan is currently witnessing terrible political turmoil. On top of that, the nation's International Monetary Fund (IMF) financial bailout has already been delayed by around seven months. For Pakistan, whose GDP in 2021 amounted to merely $350 billion in 2021, the repayment amount of $77.5 billion over the next three years is "substantial", reports Khaama Press. Also read | Nearly 80 Afghan school girls poisoned in Taliban-ruled Afghanistan The report predicts that Pakistan's coal and food export revenues could witness a decline if the economic and political crisis persists and the security situation in border areas continues to deteriorate. As per the report, "The political crisis and civil unrest are likely to worsen ahead of general elections scheduled for October 2023, amid growing insecurity in the northwest of the country. A shortage of foreign reserves and a depreciating currency are diminishing the country's ability to import essential food items and energy supplies and increasing food items' prices besides causing nationwide energy cuts." Afghanistan's distress Almost 70 per cent of Afghanistan is struggling to afford two square meals a day. As per Khaama Press, economic and political crises are further impacting households' buying power and reducing their ability to purchase food and other essential goods. As per a report by news agency ANI: "Afghanistan has become insular after the Taliban assumed power in August 2021." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

United Nations labels Afghanistan, Pakistan 'early warning hotspots', predicts worsening food insecurity

The United Nations-mediated grain contract with Ukraine is slated to expire on May 18 and Chief Cindy McCain has stated that it will be difficult to send food grains to the wild if Russia does not renew the agreement.

WFP Chief: If grain deal not renewed, it could trigger global food crisis

Due to a "severe" lack of funding, the World Food Programme (WFP) will stop providing food assistance to more than 200,000 Palestinians starting next month, the organization's top representative for the Palestinian territories announced on Sunday.

The WFP's assistance in Gaza and the West Bank is crucial in supporting the basic needs of vulnerable populations in the context of ongoing conflict and occupation.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/french-startup-will-take-to-take-people-to-space-in-a-balloon-heres-how-590070">French startup will take people to space in a balloon. Here's how</a>

"In light of the severe funding shortages, WFP is forced to make painful choices to stretch the limited resources," the WFP's country director Samer Abdeljaber told Reuters .&nbsp;

"WFP would have to start suspending assistance to over 200,000 people, which is 60 percent of its current case load, from June," he added.&nbsp;

The WFP continues to call for an end to the blockade of Gaza and for greater access for humanitarian organizations in the West Bank. Families in Gaza and the West Bank, where food insecurity and poverty are at their worst levels, are the most affected.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-pm-sympathises-with-koreas-colonial-victims-stops-short-of-offering-apology-590066">Japanese PM ‘sympathises’ with Korea’s colonial victims, stops short of offering apology</a>

The UN organisation's assistance includes food baskets and monthly vouchers that allow beneficiaries to purchase food from local markets. It also supports the local economy. The vouchers are of a value of $10.30 per person to Palestinians who are in need. However, if the aid stops, they will both be impacted.

According to Palestinian and UN data, Gaza is home to 2.3 million people, of whom 45% are unemployed and 80% rely on international aid. Gaza has been run by the Islamist Hamas group since 2007.

The World Food Programme (WFP) is aware of how this necessary and difficult choice would affect the hundreds of thousands of people who rely on food aid to meet their most basic requirements, according to Abdeljaber.

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Israel has spearheaded a blockade with Egypt for years that restricted the flow of people and commodities, citing security concerns with the enclave's Hamas leadership.

Abdeljaber noted that the decision to suspend help was made to save those who are most at risk of not being able to purchase their meals. The United Nations organisation will continue to provide assistance to 140,000 people in Gaza and the West Bank.

By August, he said, WFP would be obliged to completely stop providing food and financial relief if money is not received. Dozens of Palestinians demonstrated outside the WFP headquarters in Gaza City while chanting "No to Hunger" in opposition to the choice.

"The voucher is life, the message they sent us equals death since there is no other source of income," said Faraj Al-Masri, a father of two whose family receives vouchers worth $41.20 each month.&nbsp;

Jamalat El-Dabour, whose family receives coupons worth $164.80 a month in Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, claimed they will "starve to death" since her husband is unwell and unemployed.

(With inputs from agencies)

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Due to a "severe" lack of funding, the World Food Programme (WFP) will stop providing food assistance to more than 200,000 Palestinians starting next month, the organization's top representative for the Palestinian territories announced on Sunday.

Due to a "severe" lack of funding, the World Food Programme (WFP) will stop providing food assistance to more than 200,000 Palestinians starting next month, the organization's top representative for the Palestinian territories announced on Sunday. The WFP's assistance in Gaza and the West Bank is crucial in supporting the basic needs of vulnerable populations in the context of ongoing conflict and occupation. Also Read | French startup will take people to space in a balloon. Here's how "In light of the severe funding shortages, WFP is forced to make painful choices to stretch the limited resources," the WFP's country director Samer Abdeljaber told Reuters . "WFP would have to start suspending assistance to over 200,000 people, which is 60 percent of its current case load, from June," he added. The WFP continues to call for an end to the blockade of Gaza and for greater access for humanitarian organizations in the West Bank. Families in Gaza and the West Bank, where food insecurity and poverty are at their worst levels, are the most affected. Also Read | Japanese PM ‘sympathises’ with Korea’s colonial victims, stops short of offering apology The UN organisation's assistance includes food baskets and monthly vouchers that allow beneficiaries to purchase food from local markets. It also supports the local economy. The vouchers are of a value of $10.30 per person to Palestinians who are in need. However, if the aid stops, they will both be impacted. According to Palestinian and UN data, Gaza is home to 2.3 million people, of whom 45% are unemployed and 80% rely on international aid. Gaza has been run by the Islamist Hamas group since 2007. The World Food Programme (WFP) is aware of how this necessary and difficult choice would affect the hundreds of thousands of people who rely on food aid to meet their most basic requirements, according to Abdeljaber. Watch | India: 'Vegan leather' developed by Central Leather Research Institute | Sustainable Fashion × Israel has spearheaded a blockade with Egypt for years that restricted the flow of people and commodities, citing security concerns with the enclave's Hamas leadership. Abdeljaber noted that the decision to suspend help was made to save those who are most at risk of not being able to purchase their meals. The United Nations organisation will continue to provide assistance to 140,000 people in Gaza and the West Bank. By August, he said, WFP would be obliged to completely stop providing food and financial relief if money is not received. Dozens of Palestinians demonstrated outside the WFP headquarters in Gaza City while chanting "No to Hunger" in opposition to the choice. "The voucher is life, the message they sent us equals death since there is no other source of income," said Faraj Al-Masri, a father of two whose family receives vouchers worth $41.20 each month. Jamalat El-Dabour, whose family receives coupons worth $164.80 a month in Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, claimed they will "starve to death" since her husband is unwell and unemployed. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. ×

'Voucher is life': Palestinians as WFP to stop food aid due to 'severe' lacks of funds

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all the latest news and top headlines from all across the globe - WFP to suspend food aid to Palestinians, this would affect people living in Gaza and the West Bank, where food shortages and poverty are still widespread, starting from next month. There are 2.3 million people living in Gaza, which is currently ruled by the islamist Hamas group, 80 of whom depend on international aid.

WFP to suspend food aid to Palestinians | Israel demolishes Palestinian school

The number of people at risk of starvation in the drought-ravaged Horn of Africa has increased to 22 million, the UN's World Food Programme (WFP) said Friday.

Years of insufficient rainfall across Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia have caused the worst drought in 40 years and conditions akin to famine in the hardest-hit areas, aid groups say.

An unprecedented four failed rainy seasons have&nbsp;killed millions of livestock, destroyed crops, and forced 1.1 million people from their homes in search of food and water.

"The world needs to act now to protect the most vulnerable communities from the threat of widespread famine in the Horn of Africa," said WFP executive director David Beasley.

"There is still no end in sight to this drought crisis, so we must get the resources needed to save lives and stop people plunging into catastrophic levels of hunger and starvation."

At the start of 2022, WFP warned that 13 million people across the three countries faced starvation, and appealed for donors to open their purses at a time of great need.

But funds were slow in coming, with Russia's invasion of Ukraine among other crises drawing attention from the disaster in the Horn, humanitarian workers said.

Russia's invasion also sent global food and fuel prices soaring, making aid delivery more expensive.

By the middle of the year, when rain failed to appear again in Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia, the number in extreme need soared to 20 million and warnings of famine grew more urgent.

WFP says by September, at least 22 million people could face starvation.&nbsp;

"This number will continue to climb, and the severity of hunger will deepen if the next rainy season... fails and the most vulnerable people do not receive humanitarian relief," WFP said in a statement.

Needs will remain high into 2023 and famine is now a serious risk, particularly in Somalia&nbsp;where nearly half the population of 15 million is seriously hungry, it added.

WFP said $418 million was needed over the next six months to help the worst-off.

Last month, the United States announced $1.2 billion in emergency food and malnutrition treatment to help avert famine in the Horn of Africa, and urged other nations to do more.

The number of people at risk of starvation in the drought-ravaged Horn of Africa has increased to 22 million, the UN's World Food Programme (WFP) said Friday. Years of insufficient rainfall across Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia have caused the worst drought in 40 years and conditions akin to famine in the hardest-hit areas, aid groups say.

The number of people at risk of starvation in the drought-ravaged Horn of Africa has increased to 22 million, the UN's World Food Programme (WFP) said Friday. Years of insufficient rainfall across Kenya, Somalia and Ethiopia have caused the worst drought in 40 years and conditions akin to famine in the hardest-hit areas, aid groups say. An unprecedented four failed rainy seasons have killed millions of livestock, destroyed crops, and forced 1.1 million people from their homes in search of food and water. "The world needs to act now to protect the most vulnerable communities from the threat of widespread famine in the Horn of Africa," said WFP executive director David Beasley. "There is still no end in sight to this drought crisis, so we must get the resources needed to save lives and stop people plunging into catastrophic levels of hunger and starvation." At the start of 2022, WFP warned that 13 million people across the three countries faced starvation, and appealed for donors to open their purses at a time of great need. But funds were slow in coming, with Russia's invasion of Ukraine among other crises drawing attention from the disaster in the Horn, humanitarian workers said. Russia's invasion also sent global food and fuel prices soaring, making aid delivery more expensive. By the middle of the year, when rain failed to appear again in Kenya, Ethiopia and Somalia, the number in extreme need soared to 20 million and warnings of famine grew more urgent. WFP says by September, at least 22 million people could face starvation. "This number will continue to climb, and the severity of hunger will deepen if the next rainy season... fails and the most vulnerable people do not receive humanitarian relief," WFP said in a statement. Needs will remain high into 2023 and famine is now a serious risk, particularly in Somalia where nearly half the population of 15 million is seriously hungry, it added. WFP said $418 million was needed over the next six months to help the worst-off. Last month, the United States announced $1.2 billion in emergency food and malnutrition treatment to help avert famine in the Horn of Africa, and urged other nations to do more.

22 million face starvation in Horn of Africa: World Food Programme

The majority of those who voted on Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk's Twitter poll think he should sell ten per cent of his company's stock.

For the uninitiated, Musk recently got into a heated Twitter exchange with UN World Food Programme (WFP) chief David Beasley following a suggestion by the WFP, that billionaires like Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk could donate a portion of their wealth to help end world hunger.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/elon-musk-proposes-to-sell-10-of-his-tesla-stock-in-twitter-poll-427341">Elon Musk proposes to sell 10% of his Tesla stock in Twitter poll</a>

During the days-long spat, the two exchanged some fiery tweets. Finally, the world's richest person on Saturday took to Twitter to survey his 62.6 million followers about whether he should sell ten per cent of his stock in the electric car company.

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Much is made lately of unrealized gains being a means of tax avoidance, so I propose selling 10% of my Tesla stock. 
 
Do you support this?
— Lorde Edge (@elonmusk) <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk/status/1457064697782489088?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The public has spoken. There was 57.9 per cent support for the billionaire selling part of his stock. More than 3.5 million people voted in the poll.

"I was prepared to accept either outcome," Musk said, after the voting ended.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/staring-into-an-abyss-un-says-3-million-in-afghanistan-45-million-worldwide-knocking-at-famines-door-427541" hreflang="en">'Staring into an abyss': UN says 3 million in Afghanistan, 45 million worldwide knocking at famine's door</a>

According to Reuters calculations, Musk holds 170.5 million Tesla shares as of June 30, and selling 10 per cent&nbsp;would be worth close to $21 billion based on Friday's closing price.

"Much is made lately of unrealized gains being a means of tax avoidance, so I propose selling 10% of my Tesla stock," Musk said on Saturday, adding that he does not take cash salary or bonus "from anywhere", and only has stock.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/meet-me-on-earth-or-in-space-wfp-chief-fires-new-tweet-at-elon-musk-426140">Meet me on Earth or in space: WFP chief fires new tweet at Elon Musk</a>

The US Senate Democrats are planning to tax billionaires' stocks and other tradeable assets to help finance President Joe Biden's social spending agenda. The goal is to close a loophole that has allowed them (billionaires) to defer capital gains taxes indefinitely.

Musk has criticized the proposal, saying, "Eventually, they run out of other people’s money and then they come for you."

Watch |&nbsp;Elon Musk is willing to spend $6 billion to fight world hunger, but with a plan

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Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, who floated the tax proposal, tweeted on Saturday: "Whether or not the world’s wealthiest man pays any taxes at all shouldn’t depend on the results of a Twitter poll. It’s time for the Billionaires Income Tax."

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Whether or not the world’s wealthiest man pays any taxes at all shouldn’t depend on the results of a Twitter poll. It’s time for the Billionaires Income Tax. <a href="https://t.co/KFHw3VZ45H">https://t.co/KFHw3VZ45H</a>
— Ron Wyden (@RonWyden) <a href="https://twitter.com/RonWyden/status/1457110175932846080?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 6, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Musk owns 23 per cent of Tesla, which is the world's most valuable automobile company, and whose market value is now over $1 trillion. Among his other valuable businesses is SpaceX.

The majority of those who voted on Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk's Twitter poll think he should sell ten per cent of his company's stock. For the uninitiated, Musk recently got into a heated Twitter exchange with UN World Food Programme (WFP) chief David Beasley following a suggestion by the WFP, that billionaires like Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk could donate a portion of their wealth to help end world hunger.

The majority of those who voted on Tesla Inc CEO Elon Musk's Twitter poll think he should sell ten per cent of his company's stock. For the uninitiated, Musk recently got into a heated Twitter exchange with UN World Food Programme (WFP) chief David Beasley following a suggestion by the WFP, that billionaires like Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk could donate a portion of their wealth to help end world hunger. Also read | Elon Musk proposes to sell 10% of his Tesla stock in Twitter poll During the days-long spat, the two exchanged some fiery tweets. Finally, the world's richest person on Saturday took to Twitter to survey his 62.6 million followers about whether he should sell ten per cent of his stock in the electric car company. Much is made lately of unrealized gains being a means of tax avoidance, so I propose selling 10% of my Tesla stock. Do you support this? — Lorde Edge (@elonmusk) November 6, 2021 × The public has spoken. There was 57.9 per cent support for the billionaire selling part of his stock. More than 3.5 million people voted in the poll. "I was prepared to accept either outcome," Musk said, after the voting ended. Also read| 'Staring into an abyss': UN says 3 million in Afghanistan, 45 million worldwide knocking at famine's door According to Reuters calculations, Musk holds 170.5 million Tesla shares as of June 30, and selling 10 per cent would be worth close to $21 billion based on Friday's closing price. "Much is made lately of unrealized gains being a means of tax avoidance, so I propose selling 10% of my Tesla stock," Musk said on Saturday, adding that he does not take cash salary or bonus "from anywhere", and only has stock. Also read | Meet me on Earth or in space: WFP chief fires new tweet at Elon Musk The US Senate Democrats are planning to tax billionaires' stocks and other tradeable assets to help finance President Joe Biden's social spending agenda. The goal is to close a loophole that has allowed them (billionaires) to defer capital gains taxes indefinitely. Musk has criticized the proposal, saying, "Eventually, they run out of other people’s money and then they come for you." Watch | Elon Musk is willing to spend $6 billion to fight world hunger, but with a plan Senate Finance Committee Chairman Ron Wyden, who floated the tax proposal, tweeted on Saturday: "Whether or not the world’s wealthiest man pays any taxes at all shouldn’t depend on the results of a Twitter poll. It’s time for the Billionaires Income Tax." Whether or not the world’s wealthiest man pays any taxes at all shouldn’t depend on the results of a Twitter poll. It’s time for the Billionaires Income Tax. https://t.co/KFHw3VZ45H — Ron Wyden (@RonWyden) November 6, 2021 × Musk owns 23 per cent of Tesla, which is the world's most valuable automobile company, and whose market value is now over $1 trillion. Among his other valuable businesses is SpaceX.

57.9 percent vote 'yes'; Twitter wants Elon Musk to sell 10 percent of his Tesla stock

Twitter war between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and World Food Programme (WFP) chief David Beasley does not seem to end. WFP chief has now said that he is ready to meet the billionaire on 'Earth or space' in order to show him how a one-time contribution from Musk may prove to be decisive in alleviating global hunger.

Musk and Beasley have been trading tweets on this issue for past few days. In his latest tweet, Beasley appears to have nudged Musk by saying 'Instead of tweets' they could meet in person and discuss the issue.

"Instead of tweets, allow me to show you. We can meet anywhere—Earth or space—but I suggest in the field where you can see @WFP’s people, processes and yes, technology, at work. I will bring the plan, and open books," Beasley tweeted.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/on-a-roll-hertzs-100000-vehicle-order-helps-tesla-elon-musk-scale-new-heights-424106">On a roll: Hertz’s 100,000-vehicle order helps Tesla, Elon Musk scale new heights</a>

The Twitter feud has been going on since October 31 when Elon Musk, based on a headline in CNN Business tweeted that if USD 6 billion could solve world hunger, he was ready to sell Tesla shares and donate the amount to UN food agency. However, he appeared pointed in his Twitter by asking WFP to explain how USD 6 billion would solve world hunger.

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.<a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> Instead of tweets, allow me to show you. We can meet anywhere—Earth or space—but I suggest in the field where you can see <a href="https://twitter.com/WFP?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@WFP</a>’s people, processes and yes, technology, at work. I will bring the plan, and open books.
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In next two tweets, WFP chief appeared to explain his side by calling the CNN headline 'not accurate'.

"Headline not accurate. $6B will not solve world hunger, but it WILL prevent geopolitical instability, mass migration and save 42 million people on the brink of starvation. An unprecedented crisis and a perfect storm due to Covid/conflict/climate crises," he tweted.

"With your help we can bring hope, build stability and change the future. Let’s talk: It isn’t as complicated as Falcon Heavy, but too much at stake to not at least have a conversation. I can be on the next flight to you. Throw me out if you don’t like what you hear!" he said in the next tweet.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/tesla-reports-record-profits-amid-production-surge-422745">Tesla reports record profits amid production surge</a>

On this, Musk requested Beasley to publish WFP spendings in order to "see exactly where money goes" to which the WFP chief responded indicating his readiness to meet Musk on Earth or in space.

All eyes are on the next chapter of this Twitter war.

Twitter war between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and World Food Programme (WFP) chief David Beasley does not seem to end. WFP chief has now said that he is ready to meet the billionaire on 'Earth or space' in order to show him how a one-time contribution from Musk may prove to be decisive in alleviating global hunger.

Twitter war between Tesla CEO Elon Musk and World Food Programme (WFP) chief David Beasley does not seem to end. WFP chief has now said that he is ready to meet the billionaire on 'Earth or space' in order to show him how a one-time contribution from Musk may prove to be decisive in alleviating global hunger. Musk and Beasley have been trading tweets on this issue for past few days. In his latest tweet, Beasley appears to have nudged Musk by saying 'Instead of tweets' they could meet in person and discuss the issue. "Instead of tweets, allow me to show you. We can meet anywhere—Earth or space—but I suggest in the field where you can see @WFP’s people, processes and yes, technology, at work. I will bring the plan, and open books," Beasley tweeted. Also Read | On a roll: Hertz’s 100,000-vehicle order helps Tesla, Elon Musk scale new heights The Twitter feud has been going on since October 31 when Elon Musk, based on a headline in CNN Business tweeted that if USD 6 billion could solve world hunger, he was ready to sell Tesla shares and donate the amount to UN food agency. However, he appeared pointed in his Twitter by asking WFP to explain how USD 6 billion would solve world hunger. .@elonmusk Instead of tweets, allow me to show you. We can meet anywhere—Earth or space—but I suggest in the field where you can see @WFP’s people, processes and yes, technology, at work. I will bring the plan, and open books. — David Beasley (@WFPChief) November 1, 2021 × In next two tweets, WFP chief appeared to explain his side by calling the CNN headline 'not accurate'. "Headline not accurate. $6B will not solve world hunger, but it WILL prevent geopolitical instability, mass migration and save 42 million people on the brink of starvation. An unprecedented crisis and a perfect storm due to Covid/conflict/climate crises," he tweted. "With your help we can bring hope, build stability and change the future. Let’s talk: It isn’t as complicated as Falcon Heavy, but too much at stake to not at least have a conversation. I can be on the next flight to you. Throw me out if you don’t like what you hear!" he said in the next tweet. Also Read | Tesla reports record profits amid production surge On this, Musk requested Beasley to publish WFP spendings in order to "see exactly where money goes" to which the WFP chief responded indicating his readiness to meet Musk on Earth or in space. All eyes are on the next chapter of this Twitter war.

Meet me on Earth or in space: WFP chief fires new tweet at Elon Musk

According to World Food Programme (WFH) 93% of Afghans do not eat enough food. Watch this report to know more.

WFP: 93% of Afghans do not eat enough food

United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Friday that one in every three Afghans was at risk of severe or acute hunger. The total number is pegged at 14 million people. The situation has erupted due to combined efforts of war and drought linked to global warming.

The dire assessment comes as the country faces an uncertain future after the Taliban routed the government to take power over the weekend.

"2021 is an extraordinarily difficult year for Afghanistan," WFP representative and country director Mary-Ellen McGroarty told AFP in a telephone interview from Kabul.

McGroarty warned of "horrendous humanitarian crisis unfolding. She said that she intended to remain in the South Asian nation with the WFP "to deliver the much needed humanitarian response that is now required"

The war-torn country is facing its second severe drought in three years, on top of the fighting and displacement of people, she said.

"We are in a dire situation, the latest analysis indicates that 14 million people are already at risk of severe or acute hunger," McGroarty added, adding that two million children are at risk of malnutrition.

Wheat production has fallen 40 per cent after one of the driest periods in almost 30 years.

"It's had a devastating impact as well on livestock," McGroarty explained.

"As the conflict has escalated right across the country, farmers are unable to harvest the land, they're fleeing from their homes," she said.

Orchards have been destroyed in some areas, along with civilian infrastructure such as bridges, dams and roads.

 
"So, today, when you have the combined impact of the conflict with the drought, food is getting expensive."

 
The price of a bag of wheat is today 24 per cent higher than the five-year average.

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Friday that one in every three Afghans was at risk of severe or acute hunger. The total number is pegged at 14 million people.

United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Friday that one in every three Afghans was at risk of severe or acute hunger. The total number is pegged at 14 million people. The situation has erupted due to combined efforts of war and drought linked to global warming. The dire assessment comes as the country faces an uncertain future after the Taliban routed the government to take power over the weekend. "2021 is an extraordinarily difficult year for Afghanistan," WFP representative and country director Mary-Ellen McGroarty told AFP in a telephone interview from Kabul. McGroarty warned of "horrendous humanitarian crisis unfolding. She said that she intended to remain in the South Asian nation with the WFP "to deliver the much needed humanitarian response that is now required" The war-torn country is facing its second severe drought in three years, on top of the fighting and displacement of people, she said. "We are in a dire situation, the latest analysis indicates that 14 million people are already at risk of severe or acute hunger," McGroarty added, adding that two million children are at risk of malnutrition. Wheat production has fallen 40 per cent after one of the driest periods in almost 30 years. "It's had a devastating impact as well on livestock," McGroarty explained. "As the conflict has escalated right across the country, farmers are unable to harvest the land, they're fleeing from their homes," she said. Orchards have been destroyed in some areas, along with civilian infrastructure such as bridges, dams and roads. "So, today, when you have the combined impact of the conflict with the drought, food is getting expensive." The price of a bag of wheat is today 24 per cent higher than the five-year average. (With inputs from agencies)

One-third Afghan population at risk of severe or acute hunger, says WFP

Communities in&nbsp;Madagascar&nbsp;are on the verge of starvation, with women and children walking for hours to reach food after the worst drought in four decades devastated the south of the island, the World Food Programme said.

Acute malnutrition has almost doubled over the last four months, the WFP said, with more than a quarter of people suffering in one area.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/humanitarian-disaster-clay-quelling-hunger-in-famine-hit-madagascar-348659">Humanitarian disaster: Clay quelling hunger in famine-hit Madagascar</a>

"I met women and children who were holding on for dear life, they'd walked for hours to get to our food distribution points," David Beasley, WFP executive director, said in a statement.

"There have been back-to-back droughts in&nbsp;Madagascar&nbsp;which have pushed communities right to the very edge of starvation. Families are suffering and people are already dying from severe hunger," he added. Beasley blamed climate change for the crisis.

WFP said $78.6 million was needed to fight the crisis.

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"Families have been living on raw red cactus fruits, wild leaves and locusts for months now," Beasley said.

Bole, a mother of three from Ambiriky,&nbsp;in southern&nbsp;Madagascar, who also is caring for two orphans after their mother died, told the agency that to survive they relied on cactus leaves for their meals.

"We have nothing left. Their mother is dead and my husband is dead. What do you want me to say? Our life is all about looking for cactus leaves again and again to survive," she said.

Communities in Madagascar are on the verge of starvation, with women and children walking for hours to reach food after the worst drought in four decades devastated the south of the island, the World Food Programme said.

Communities in Madagascar are on the verge of starvation, with women and children walking for hours to reach food after the worst drought in four decades devastated the south of the island, the World Food Programme said. Acute malnutrition has almost doubled over the last four months, the WFP said, with more than a quarter of people suffering in one area. Also read | Humanitarian disaster: Clay quelling hunger in famine-hit Madagascar "I met women and children who were holding on for dear life, they'd walked for hours to get to our food distribution points," David Beasley, WFP executive director, said in a statement. "There have been back-to-back droughts in Madagascar which have pushed communities right to the very edge of starvation. Families are suffering and people are already dying from severe hunger," he added. Beasley blamed climate change for the crisis. WFP said $78.6 million was needed to fight the crisis. "Families have been living on raw red cactus fruits, wild leaves and locusts for months now," Beasley said. Bole, a mother of three from Ambiriky, in southern Madagascar, who also is caring for two orphans after their mother died, told the agency that to survive they relied on cactus leaves for their meals. "We have nothing left. Their mother is dead and my husband is dead. What do you want me to say? Our life is all about looking for cactus leaves again and again to survive," she said.

Madagascar communities on verge of starvation after drought: World Food Programme

A record 12.4 million people in war-torn Syria are struggling to find enough food to eat, the UN food agency has said, in an increase it described Saturday as "alarming".

The figure means "60 percent of the Syrian population are now food insecure", the World Food Programme said, based on results of a nationwide assessment in late 2020.

It marks a sharp increase from 9.3 million people who were food insecure in May last year.

"More Syrians are slipping deeper into hunger, poverty and food insecurity than ever before," WFP spokeswoman Jessica Lawson told AFP.

"It is alarming that a basic meal is now beyond the reach of the majority of families."

Syria's almost ten-year-old war has ravaged the economy and sent inflation soaring across the country.

In early 2021, food prices nationwide were 33 times higher than the five-year pre-war average, WFP says.

A dire financial crisis in neighbouring Lebanon that has slowed dollar inflows and lockdowns to stem the spread of the coronavirus pandemic have further increased economic woes.

"The economic situation in Syria is putting immense pressure on families who have nothing left after years of conflict and many depend entirely on humanitarian assistance to survive," Lawson said.

The Syrian conflict has killed more than 387,000 people and displaced millions more from their homes since starting in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

A record 12.4 million people in war-torn Syria are struggling to find enough food to eat, the UN food agency has said, in an increase it described Saturday as "alarming".

A record 12.4 million people in war-torn Syria are struggling to find enough food to eat, the UN food agency has said, in an increase it described Saturday as "alarming". The figure means "60 percent of the Syrian population are now food insecure", the World Food Programme said, based on results of a nationwide assessment in late 2020. It marks a sharp increase from 9.3 million people who were food insecure in May last year. "More Syrians are slipping deeper into hunger, poverty and food insecurity than ever before," WFP spokeswoman Jessica Lawson told AFP. "It is alarming that a basic meal is now beyond the reach of the majority of families." Syria's almost ten-year-old war has ravaged the economy and sent inflation soaring across the country. In early 2021, food prices nationwide were 33 times higher than the five-year pre-war average, WFP says. A dire financial crisis in neighbouring Lebanon that has slowed dollar inflows and lockdowns to stem the spread of the coronavirus pandemic have further increased economic woes. "The economic situation in Syria is putting immense pressure on families who have nothing left after years of conflict and many depend entirely on humanitarian assistance to survive," Lawson said. The Syrian conflict has killed more than 387,000 people and displaced millions more from their homes since starting in 2011 with the brutal repression of anti-government protests.

12.4 mln people food insecure in war-torn Syria: WFP

The year 2020 — dubbed as the 'pandemic year' — has been one of the worst years due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Many have been waiting for this year to end so that they get a fresh start in the year 2021. However, experts believe 2021 will, instead, be&nbsp;“catastrophic”.

David Beasley, the Chief of the World Food Programme has raised concerns about the upcoming year and has warned people to brace themselves for a&nbsp;“catastrophic” humanitarian crises.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/around-29-million-women-and-girls-victims-of-modern-slavery-un-report-334530">Around 29 million women and girls victims of modern slavery: UN report</a>

As per the experts, 2021 can be one of the worst years human beings have seen in almost a century. The year can bring in extreme starvation and famine, especially in the third-world countries.

Beasley sounded the alarm in the&nbsp;United Nations General Assembly during a discussion about the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and its effects on the world. As per the WFP, nearly 270 million people around the globe are "marching toward starvation" and the experts are predicting a famine.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-stillbirth-every-16-seconds-and-this-could-get-worse-due-to-covid-19-pandemic-333385">One stillbirth every 16 seconds and this could get worse due to COVID-19 pandemic</a>

"2021 is literally going to be catastrophic, based on what we're seeing at this stage in the game," Beasley said. He also pointed out lack of funds which has happened "because we've spent $19 trillion, that money may not, and will not most likely be available for 2021."

"We’re now looking literally at 2021 being the worst humanitarian crisis year since the beginning of the United Nations, and we’re going to have to step up," he continued.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-ngos-shaken-by-dr-congo-sex-abuse-claims-332143">UN, NGOs shaken by DR Congo sex abuse claims</a>

Beasley said it is not simply the pandemic which has led to this catastrophic situation. While the pandemic and the government-regulated lockdowns have brought a steep decline in human progress, the "man-made conflict", too, has played a major role in this situation, especially in countries such as&nbsp;Syria, Yemen, and South Sudan.

"We’ve got to end some of these wars. We’ve got to bring these wars to an end, so we can achieve the sustainable development goals that we so desire," he said. Explaining the situation with the metaphor of Titanic, he continued, "If we’re strategic and put the funds to these particular icebergs before us, I believe that we can get through 2021, while we work with the vaccines and rebuild the economies."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/the-west-asia-post-child-malnutrition-soars-in-yemen-347944">WATCH|</a>

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Earlier, too, WFP had warned governments about a possible spike of 80 per cent in people facing malnutrition by the end of the year. The organisation had warned against a "famine of biblical proportions" and had predicted death of nearly 1.2 million under the age of five within six months.

The year 2020 — dubbed as the 'pandemic year' — has been one of the worst years due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Many have been waiting for this year to end so that they get a fresh start in the year 2021.

The year 2020 — dubbed as the 'pandemic year' — has been one of the worst years due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Many have been waiting for this year to end so that they get a fresh start in the year 2021. However, experts believe 2021 will, instead, be “catastrophic”. David Beasley, the Chief of the World Food Programme has raised concerns about the upcoming year and has warned people to brace themselves for a “catastrophic” humanitarian crises. Also read| Around 29 million women and girls victims of modern slavery: UN report As per the experts, 2021 can be one of the worst years human beings have seen in almost a century. The year can bring in extreme starvation and famine, especially in the third-world countries. Beasley sounded the alarm in the United Nations General Assembly during a discussion about the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and its effects on the world. As per the WFP, nearly 270 million people around the globe are "marching toward starvation" and the experts are predicting a famine. Also read| One stillbirth every 16 seconds and this could get worse due to COVID-19 pandemic "2021 is literally going to be catastrophic, based on what we're seeing at this stage in the game," Beasley said. He also pointed out lack of funds which has happened "because we've spent $19 trillion, that money may not, and will not most likely be available for 2021." "We’re now looking literally at 2021 being the worst humanitarian crisis year since the beginning of the United Nations, and we’re going to have to step up," he continued. Also read| UN, NGOs shaken by DR Congo sex abuse claims Beasley said it is not simply the pandemic which has led to this catastrophic situation. While the pandemic and the government-regulated lockdowns have brought a steep decline in human progress, the "man-made conflict", too, has played a major role in this situation, especially in countries such as Syria, Yemen, and South Sudan. "We’ve got to end some of these wars. We’ve got to bring these wars to an end, so we can achieve the sustainable development goals that we so desire," he said. Explaining the situation with the metaphor of Titanic, he continued, "If we’re strategic and put the funds to these particular icebergs before us, I believe that we can get through 2021, while we work with the vaccines and rebuild the economies." WATCH| × Earlier, too, WFP had warned governments about a possible spike of 80 per cent in people facing malnutrition by the end of the year. The organisation had warned against a "famine of biblical proportions" and had predicted death of nearly 1.2 million under the age of five within six months.

World Food Programme warns 2021 will bring 'catastrophic' humanitarian crisis

The W.H.O. (World Health Organization) and W.F.P. (World Food Programme) have warned that next year is now shaping up to be a humanitarian catastrophe. The number of people needing humanitarian help has gone up by forty percent.

Humanitarian crisis will shape up by 2021: W.H.O.

Worsening violence by militants with links to Islamic State in northern Mozambique are causing thousands to go hungry as they flee their homes and abandon farms, the U.N. World Food Programme (WFP) warned on Tuesday.

WION Dispatch: UN World Food Programme warns of food security crisis in Mozambique

Ahead of World Food Day, the World Food Programme (WFP) said more than 800 million people, one in nine people globally, are facing chronic hunger and are unable to meet their basic food requirements. WFP. World Food Day is marked on Wednesday (16 Oct). WFP said, for the most part, the causes of hunger remain the same – conflict, the climate crisis and economic marginalization.

More than 800 million people facing chronic hunger: World Food Programme

The World Food Programme (WFP) on Wednesday (August 21) resumed distributing food to 850,000 people in Yemen's capital Sanaa after a two-month stoppage, having reached an agreement with the Iran-aligned Houthi authorities who control the city.

WFP resumes food distribution in Yemen's Sanaa after deal with Houthis

The head of the UN's World Food Programme said today it appeared North Korea was "turning a new page in history", following a four-day visit to the country.

David Beasley said he had enjoyed unprecedented access to the secretive state, spending two days in the capital Pyongyang and two in the countryside, accompanied by government minders.

He said there was undoubtedly a hunger problem in North Korea but it was not on the scale of the 1990s famine.

Also read: <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/very-smart-and-gracious-gesture-trump-thanks-north-korea-for-promising-to-destroy-nuclear-test-site-136434">Trump thanks North Korea for promising to destroy nuclear test site</a>

North Korea's economy has been devastated by its own mismanagement and crippling international sanctions over its nuclear weapons programme. However, its relations with the rest of the world are rapidly changing, with leader Kim Jong Un on a charm offensive.

Beasley told BBC radio that North Korea's leaders had a "sense of optimism".

Dialogue brokered by Seoul has seen US-North Korea relations go from trading personal insults and threats of war last year to a summit between Kim and President Donald Trump due in Singapore on June 12.

"There is a sense of turning a new page in history," said Bealsey, 61, the former governor of South Carolina.

He described the farming he witnessed outside the capital, in a country where only around a fifth of the land is arable.

"One of the most powerful things that I saw was out in the countryside -- it's spring, they're planting -- there's not mechanisation. You've got oxen pulling ploughs, men and women in the fields," said Beasley.

"It's very structured, very organised, every foot and inch of dirt is being toiled with rakes and hoes and shovels, and they're literally planting crops up to the edge of the road, down embankments, using every available space because it is a land that's mostly mountainous." North Korea has periodically been hit by famine, and hundreds of thousands of people died -- estimates range into the millions -- in the mid-1990s.

Beasley said: "I didn't see starvation like you had in the famine back in the 1990s, that's the good news. But is there a hunger issue, is there under-nutrition? There's no question about it." A United Nations-led report in March said chronic food shortages and malnutrition were widespread.

Around 41 percent -- 10.5 million people -- were undernourished, it said Around 18 million North Koreans, or 70 percent of the population including 1.3 million children aged under five, depend on the government-run Public Distribution System for rations of cereal and potatoes.

But most people do not consume a sufficiently diverse diet for healthy development, the report said. (AFP)&nbsp

The comment came from the chief of the UN's World Food Programme after a four-day visit to the country

The head of the UN's World Food Programme said today it appeared North Korea was "turning a new page in history", following a four-day visit to the country. David Beasley said he had enjoyed unprecedented access to the secretive state, spending two days in the capital Pyongyang and two in the countryside, accompanied by government minders. He said there was undoubtedly a hunger problem in North Korea but it was not on the scale of the 1990s famine. Also read: Trump thanks North Korea for promising to destroy nuclear test site North Korea's economy has been devastated by its own mismanagement and crippling international sanctions over its nuclear weapons programme. However, its relations with the rest of the world are rapidly changing, with leader Kim Jong Un on a charm offensive. Beasley told BBC radio that North Korea's leaders had a "sense of optimism". Dialogue brokered by Seoul has seen US-North Korea relations go from trading personal insults and threats of war last year to a summit between Kim and President Donald Trump due in Singapore on June 12. "There is a sense of turning a new page in history," said Bealsey, 61, the former governor of South Carolina. He described the farming he witnessed outside the capital, in a country where only around a fifth of the land is arable. "One of the most powerful things that I saw was out in the countryside -- it's spring, they're planting -- there's not mechanisation. You've got oxen pulling ploughs, men and women in the fields," said Beasley. "It's very structured, very organised, every foot and inch of dirt is being toiled with rakes and hoes and shovels, and they're literally planting crops up to the edge of the road, down embankments, using every available space because it is a land that's mostly mountainous." North Korea has periodically been hit by famine, and hundreds of thousands of people died -- estimates range into the millions -- in the mid-1990s. Beasley said: "I didn't see starvation like you had in the famine back in the 1990s, that's the good news. But is there a hunger issue, is there under-nutrition? There's no question about it." A United Nations-led report in March said chronic food shortages and malnutrition were widespread. Around 41 percent -- 10.5 million people -- were undernourished, it said Around 18 million North Koreans, or 70 percent of the population including 1.3 million children aged under five, depend on the government-run Public Distribution System for rations of cereal and potatoes. But most people do not consume a sufficiently diverse diet for healthy development, the report said. (AFP)

North Korea 'turning a new page'

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