Abinader honors FAO Chief Qu Dongyu with Dominican Republic’s highest merit order

Santo Domingo.- The Dominican Republic has been officially removed from the FAO Hunger Map after reducing the prevalence of undernourishment to less than 2.5% between 2023 and 2025, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

President Luis Abinader led the country’s World Food Day commemoration, where FAO Director-General Qu Dongyu praised the Dominican Republic’s progress in the fight against hunger and highlighted the government’s leadership in strengthening food security policies.

Qu Dongyu described the country’s removal from the Hunger Map as an extraordinary achievement, crediting the efforts of the government, producers, civil society, and public and private sectors.

He said the Dominican experience demonstrates that hunger can be reduced through strong political commitment, continuity in public policies, and cooperation among institutions. He also described the country’s progress as a potential reference for other nations facing food security challenges.

During the ceremony, Abinader awarded Qu Dongyu the Order of Merit of Duarte, Sánchez and Mella under Decree No. 753-26, recognizing his contributions to strengthening food systems and combating hunger worldwide.

Rodrigo Castañeda, FAO representative in the Dominican Republic, received the Heraldic Order of Christopher Columbus, in the grade of Grand Officer, under Decree No. 731-26, for his contributions to food security and international cooperation.

Qu Dongyu also called for greater investment in innovation, science and agricultural technology, as well as stronger international cooperation to improve food production and access.

The World Food Day event reaffirmed the Dominican Republic’s commitment to strengthening food security policies, increasing agricultural production and sustaining the progress that led to its removal from the FAO Hunger Map.