KSrelief, WFP Discuss Cooperation on Food Security

Senior officials from the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief) and the World Food Programme (WFP) met in Riyadh on April 16, 2025, to strengthen cooperation on global food security and sustainable development. The meeting, held at KSrelief headquarters, brought together Ahmed bin Ali Al-Baiz, Assistant Supervisor General for Operations and Programs at KSrelief, and Carl Skau, Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer of the WFP. Together, they reviewed existing frameworks of cooperation and explored new avenues for joint coordination to support food security initiatives, implement sustainable development goals, and eradicate hunger around the world.

The high-level encounter underscores Saudi Arabia’s unwavering commitment to addressing one of the most pressing global challenges of our time: hunger and malnutrition. As the world continues to grapple with the compounded effects of conflict, climate change, and economic instability, the Kingdom’s leadership in humanitarian aid and development has never been more critical. Through KSrelief, Saudi Arabia has emerged as a global leader in humanitarian response, delivering aid to millions of people in need across continents. This meeting with the WFP, the world’s largest humanitarian organization fighting hunger, signals a deepening partnership that leverages Saudi resources and strategic vision alongside the WFP’s operational expertise to create lasting solutions for food-insecure communities. How can such collaborations reshape the future of global food security? The answer lies in the shared determination of both parties to move beyond short-term relief toward sustainable, resilient food systems that empower communities and nations alike.

Context and Background

What drives Saudi Arabia to play such a pivotal role in global humanitarian efforts? The answer lies in the Kingdom’s deep-rooted values of generosity and solidarity, which are enshrined in its Vision 2030 reform agenda. Since its establishment in 2015, KSrelief has become a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s international humanitarian outreach, implementing over 2,500 projects in more than 90 countries, with a total value exceeding $6 billion. These projects span food security, health, education, water, and shelter, reflecting a comprehensive approach to alleviating human suffering. The Center’s work is guided by the principles of neutrality, impartiality, and independence, ensuring that aid reaches the most vulnerable regardless of political or geographical considerations.

The World Food Programme, for its part, is the leading humanitarian organization saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build a pathway to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impact of climate change. In 2023 alone, the WFP assisted over 150 million people in 120 countries and territories. The partnership between KSrelief and the WFP dates back several years, with Saudi Arabia consistently ranking among the top donors to the WFP. In 2023, the Kingdom contributed over $100 million to WFP operations, supporting critical food assistance in Yemen, Syria, Sudan, and other crisis-affected regions. This meeting in Riyadh builds on that strong foundation, aiming to institutionalize cooperation and maximize impact through strategic alignment.

The timing of this meeting is particularly significant. Global food insecurity has reached alarming levels, with the Global Report on Food Crises 2024 indicating that over 280 million people in 59 countries faced acute food insecurity in 2023. The situation is exacerbated by protracted conflicts, economic shocks, and extreme weather events. In this context, the dialogue between KSrelief and the WFP represents a proactive step to enhance coordination and ensure that resources are deployed efficiently to address both immediate needs and long-term resilience. How can the international community replicate such partnerships to tackle hunger at scale? The Saudi-WFP model offers a blueprint for effective collaboration between national humanitarian institutions and multilateral agencies.

Key Details of the Meeting

During the meeting, Ahmed bin Ali Al-Baiz and Carl Skau engaged in detailed discussions on several fronts. They reviewed the current frameworks of cooperation, which include joint needs assessments, rapid response mechanisms, and the provision of food assistance through cash-based transfers and in-kind distributions. The two sides also explored opportunities to expand their partnership into new areas, such as strengthening local food systems, supporting smallholder farmers, and integrating nutrition-sensitive programming. A key focus was on enhancing the resilience of communities in fragile contexts, enabling them to withstand future shocks and reduce their dependence on humanitarian aid.

Carl Skau expressed his deep appreciation for the support of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, represented by KSrelief, for the World Food Programme’s international operations. He praised KSrelief’s ongoing efforts to contribute to food security in countries in need, noting that Saudi Arabia’s contributions have been instrumental in allowing the WFP to reach millions of beneficiaries. Skau highlighted the importance of continued collaboration, especially as humanitarian needs continue to rise globally. He also acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s role in advocating for food security on international platforms, including the G20 and the United Nations.

The meeting also touched upon the importance of innovative financing mechanisms to bridge the growing gap between humanitarian needs and available resources. Both parties agreed on the need to mobilize additional funding from both public and private sources, and to explore new partnership models that leverage technology and data to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of aid delivery. They discussed the potential for joint advocacy efforts to keep food security high on the global agenda and to ensure that the most vulnerable populations are not left behind. What specific outcomes can we expect from this renewed partnership? While the details of implementation will unfold over time, the commitment demonstrated by both sides signals a strengthened resolve to work together toward a world without hunger.

International and Regional Impact

The collaboration between KSrelief and the WFP has far-reaching implications for international and regional food security. In the Middle East and North Africa, where conflicts and economic challenges have left millions food-insecure, the partnership is a lifeline for vulnerable communities. Yemen, Syria, and Sudan are among the countries that benefit from joint Saudi-WFP efforts, with Saudi Arabia being one of the largest donors to the Yemen Humanitarian Response Plan. In Yemen alone, KSrelief has provided over $4 billion in aid since 2015, including food assistance that has reached millions of Yemenis. The meeting in Riyadh reinforces Saudi Arabia’s role as a regional leader in humanitarian diplomacy and its commitment to stabilizing its neighborhood.

Beyond the region, the partnership contributes to global efforts to achieve Sustainable Development Goal 2 (Zero Hunger) by 2030. The WFP’s global reach, combined with Saudi Arabia’s financial resources and logistical capabilities, creates a powerful synergy that can drive progress on multiple SDGs, including those related to health, education, and poverty reduction. Moreover, the partnership serves as a model for other nations and organizations, demonstrating how strategic alliances can amplify impact and foster a more coordinated global response to crises. How can other countries learn from the Saudi-WFP model? By prioritizing humanitarian action, investing in multilateral cooperation, and adopting a long-term perspective that links emergency relief to sustainable development, nations can contribute to a more food-secure world.

Economic and Strategic Significance

From an economic perspective, investing in food security is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic investment in global stability and prosperity. Hunger and malnutrition undermine economic growth, perpetuate cycles of poverty, and fuel social unrest. By supporting food security initiatives, Saudi Arabia contributes to creating more stable and prosperous societies, which in turn can become partners in trade and development. The Kingdom’s own economic transformation under Vision 2030 emphasizes diversification and global engagement, and its humanitarian leadership enhances its soft power and international standing. The partnership with the WFP also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s goal of becoming a global hub for humanitarian logistics and innovation, leveraging its strategic location and advanced infrastructure.

Furthermore, the meeting underscores the importance of multilateralism in addressing transnational challenges. In a world where no single country can solve global hunger alone, partnerships like the one between KSrelief and the WFP are essential. They pool resources, share expertise, and ensure that aid is delivered where it is needed most. For Saudi Arabia, this collaboration also supports its Vision 2030 objective of enhancing the Kingdom’s role as a responsible global leader and a bridge between cultures and economies. By working hand in hand with the WFP, Saudi Arabia is not only saving lives but also building bridges of hope and solidarity across nations. What does this mean for the future of Saudi humanitarian diplomacy? It signals a continued commitment to proactive, impactful engagement on the world stage, driven by the values of generosity and justice.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The meeting between KSrelief and the WFP is a clear reflection of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to build a prosperous and outward-looking nation that contributes to global peace and development. Vision 2030 emphasizes the importance of humanitarian and relief work as a pillar of Saudi foreign policy, and KSrelief is a key instrument in realizing this vision. By strengthening partnerships with organizations like the WFP, Saudi Arabia is advancing its goal of becoming a global leader in humanitarian aid and sustainable development. This aligns with the vision’s broader objectives of economic diversification, social progress, and international cooperation.

As the Kingdom continues its journey toward a brighter future, its commitment to food security and humanitarian action will remain central to its identity. The Riyadh meeting is not just a diplomatic formality but a reaffirmation of Saudi Arabia’s pledge to stand with the hungry and vulnerable, wherever they may be. Through its partnership with the WFP, the Kingdom is helping to build a world where food is a right, not a privilege, and where sustainable development leaves no one behind. In doing so, Saudi Arabia is not only fulfilling its Vision 2030 aspirations but also setting a global example of compassion, leadership, and shared humanity. What legacy will this partnership leave for future generations? A legacy of hope, dignity, and a world united against hunger.

20 Questions

Q1. What was the main purpose of the meeting between KSrelief and the WFP in Riyadh?

A1. The meeting aimed to review and strengthen cooperation on food security initiatives, sustainable development goals, and global hunger eradication, building on existing partnerships between Saudi Arabia and the World Food Programme.

Q2. Who represented KSrelief and the WFP at this meeting?

A2. Ahmed bin Ali Al-Baiz, Assistant Supervisor General for Operations and Programs at KSrelief, represented the Saudi side, while Carl Skau, Deputy Executive Director and Chief Operating Officer, represented the WFP.

Q3. When and where did the meeting take place?

A3. The meeting was held in Riyadh on April 16, 2025, at KSrelief headquarters, as reported by the Saudi Press Agency.

Q4. What did Carl Skau express regarding Saudi Arabia’s role?

A4. Skau expressed deep appreciation for Saudi Arabia’s support through KSrelief for WFP’s international operations, praising ongoing efforts to contribute to food security in countries in need.

Q5. How does KSrelief contribute to global food security?

A5. KSrelief implements food security projects in over 90 countries, providing emergency food assistance, supporting local food systems, and enhancing resilience through sustainable development programs.

Q6. What is the World Food Programme’s mission?

A6. The WFP is the world’s largest humanitarian organization fighting hunger, saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict and disasters.

Q7. How long has KSrelief been operating?

A7. KSrelief was established in 2015 and has since become a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian outreach, implementing thousands of projects worldwide.

Q8. What are some key areas of cooperation between KSrelief and WFP?

A8. Key areas include joint needs assessments, rapid response mechanisms, cash-based transfers, in-kind distributions, nutrition-sensitive programming, and strengthening local food systems.

Q9. Which countries benefit most from this partnership?

A9. Countries facing acute food insecurity, such as Yemen, Syria, Sudan, and others in the Middle East and Africa, benefit from joint Saudi-WFP efforts.

Q10. How does this meeting align with Saudi Vision 2030?

A10. It aligns with Vision 2030’s emphasis on humanitarian work, global engagement, and sustainable development, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s role as a responsible global leader.

Q11. What is the significance of Saudi Arabia’s contributions to the WFP?

A11. Saudi Arabia is among the top donors to the WFP, contributing over $100 million in 2023, which has been instrumental in reaching millions of beneficiaries in crisis-affected regions.

Q12. How does food security relate to global stability?

A12. Food security is fundamental to economic growth, social stability, and peace; hunger and malnutrition can fuel unrest and perpetuate cycles of poverty, making food security a strategic global priority.

Q13. What innovative financing mechanisms were discussed?

A13. The meeting explored mobilizing additional funding from public and private sources, leveraging technology and data to improve aid efficiency, and joint advocacy to keep food security on the global agenda.

Q14. What role does KSrelief play in Yemen?

A14. KSrelief has provided over $4 billion in aid to Yemen since 2015, including food assistance, health care, and other critical support, making Saudi Arabia a leading donor to the Yemen humanitarian response.

Q15. How does the WFP measure the impact of its operations?

A15. The WFP uses indicators such as the number of people reached, food consumption scores, and resilience metrics to assess the effectiveness of its programs in improving food security and nutrition.

Q16. What are the Sustainable Development Goals relevant to this partnership?

A16. The partnership primarily supports SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) and contributes to SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 3 (Good Health), SDG 4 (Quality Education), and SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals).

Q17. How can other nations support global food security?

A17. Other nations can increase funding for humanitarian organizations, adopt policies that promote sustainable agriculture, and engage in multilateral partnerships to address the root causes of hunger.

Q18. What are the next steps following this meeting?

A18. Both parties will continue to implement joint programs, explore new areas of cooperation, and monitor progress to ensure that resources are effectively used to combat food insecurity.

Q19. How does Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian aid reflect its cultural values?

A19. Saudi Arabia’s humanitarian aid reflects the Kingdom’s deep-rooted values of generosity, solidarity, and compassion, which are central to its identity and are promoted through Vision 2030.

Q20. What is the long-term vision for the KSrelief-WFP partnership?

A20. The long-term vision is to contribute to a world without hunger by building resilient food systems, empowering communities, and ensuring that sustainable development reaches the most vulnerable populations.

Reader Feedback

We value your thoughts. Please share your feedback on this article.

Name *

Message *

Your feedback helps us improve our coverage.