Food crisis moves up global agenda at IMF, WBank meets

0 Comments | AFP, April, 2008

WASHINGTON (AFP) — Rising food prices and their threat to political stability and development gains captured the attention of world economic leaders meeting here, with a call to arms launched by the World Bank.

The issue steadily gained prominence during the International Monetary Fund and World Bank spring meetings over the weekend that mainly were focused on the unfolding global financial turmoil and deteriorating economic growth prospects.

The Group of Seven industrialized nations made only passing mention of the issue, disappointing those who felt the problem needs the political commitment and leadership of the rich countries to be resolved.

The IMF meanwhile called for a united front to put the reeling world economy back on track, saying "policymakers...