WFP "We Have Never Halted Support Activities in North Korea"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Yujin Cho] The World Food Programme (WFP), a United Nations food aid agency, stated that it "continues to supply food to North Korea" amid rumors of a suspension of food aid to the country.

On the 28th (local time), according to the U.S.-based nonprofit media organization Ethnic Media Services (EMS), Steve Taravella, WFP Senior Spokesperson, said, "There seems to be some misunderstanding, so I want to make it clear," adding, "We have never stopped our support activities in North Korea."

At an online briefing held on the 26th, Spokesperson Taravella said, "All UN offices in North Korea are still open."

Earlier, on the 22nd, WFP raised concerns about the suspension of food aid to North Korea by stating in a 'Revised Country Strategic Plan' on its website that "if food imports to North Korea are not possible, activities this year may be suspended."

Regarding this, Spokesperson Taravella acknowledged that WFP staff left North Korea due to the country's lockdown measures amid COVID-19 but said, "We firmly believe we will return to North Korea."

He added, "We are still working remotely, and local North Korean staff are working in the office, carrying out their usual duties and delivering food."

He emphasized, "Although it is true that the situation is difficult in many ways due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have never stopped or suspended food delivery to North Korea even once."