State Secretary Gabrič at Nutrition for Growth Summit

In her address, the State Secretary emphasised that Slovenia places food security at the forefront of its foreign policy. At the UN Security Council, Slovenia also cautions that food insecurity is a catalyst for risks that can affect international stability and security. State Secretary Gabrič also drew attention to the link between gender equality and food security, of which a nutritious diet is a fundamental part. Women and girls make up almost two-thirds of the undernourished population. Compared to men, they are twice as likely to be malnourished, due to a combination of biological, social and cultural factors.

The Nutrition for Growth Summit takes place once every four years, as it is tied to the Olympic Games. The Summit is organised by the host of the Games each time and this year it is being held for the fourth time. France, the host country, has set bold targets for the Summit, urging participants not only to discuss international political and financial commitments, but also to announce national commitment plans. Slovenia announced its humanitarian contributions to UNICEF and the World Food Programme.

On the sidelines of the meeting, State Secretary Gabrič held a number of discussions, including with the host, the French Minister of State for Francophonie and International Partnerships, Thani Mohamed Soilihi, the European Commissioner for Crisis Management and Equality, Hadja Lahbib, and the Deputy Director-General for International Cooperation at the European Commission, Marjeta Jager.