January 17, 2012 Contacts: Sue Pleming:

www.interaction.org

202.552.6561 or 202.341.3814 (Cell) or spleming@interaction.org

NGO alliance InterAction welcomes new WFP appointment

WASHINGTON (Jan. 17, 2012)InterAction, the largest alliance of U.S.-based international NGOs, welcomes the appointment of Ertharin Cousin as the new executive director of the United Nations World Food Programme. Cousin, who is currently the U.S. Representative to the United Nations agencies for Food and Agriculture in Rome, will replace outgoing WFP chief Josette Sheeran who will be joining the World Economic Forum when her WFP term ends in April. We look forward to working with Ambassador Cousin in her new role leading the WFP, whose mission reflects that of many of InterActions members to reach the worlds most poor and vulnerable populations, said Samuel A. Worthington, president of InterAction. This is a crucial time for fighting global hunger, particularly during the current economic crisis when government budgets are tight and food prices are spiraling out of control for so many of the worlds poor, he added. WFP works closely with major NGOs, including InterAction members, to deliver lifesaving food in emergencies around the world. With the first famine of the 21 Century unfolding in Somalia, WFP leadership plays a critical role in shaping how the world responds to hunger. We are confident that Ambassador Cousin will continue WFPs important work and welcome her as an advocate for the worlds hungry, Worthington said.
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InterAction is the largest alliance of U.S.-based nongovernmental international organizations, with more than 190 members. Our members operate in every developing country, working with local communities to overcome poverty and suffering by helping to improve their quality of life. Visit www.interaction.org
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