India raises food security concerns at UN over war in Ukraine

India said it remains concerned by the deterioration of global food security which has been exacerbated by the war in Ukraine that has entered its tenth month.

India's Deputy Permanent Representative Ambassador R Ravindra made these remarks at the UN General Assembly on the topic of "Strengthening of the coordination of humanitarian and disaster relief assistance of the United Nations, including special economic assistance".

"Sweden and India remain particularly concerned by the deterioration of global food security which has been exacerbated by the war in Ukraine," ambassador Ravindra said in a joint statement on behalf of India and Sweden.

India and Sweden fully support the Black Sea Grain Initiative and welcome its extension by 120 days, as announced on November 17, which means that the export of Ukrainian grain, foodstuffs and fertilizer can continue from the Black Sea ports, he said.

Ravindra noted that India has exported more than 1.8 million tons of wheat to countries in need, including to Afghanistan, Myanmar, to help low-income countries fight against price rise and shortage of foodstuff.

India's deputy permanent representative said the 2023 Global Humanitarian Overview calls for USD 51.5 billion to bring life-saving support to 230 million of the most vulnerable people.

"This is a formidable challenge for the entire international community, and one we cannot afford to downplay."

(ANI)