G8 Leaders Enjoy 5-Course Meal Before Hunger Talks

Hypocritical much?

On the eve of a G8 summit that will focus on world hunger and food shortages, diplomats enjoyed a five course meal.

"A hunger emergency looms and the world must act," said British Prime Minister Gordon Brown, because having a five course meal surely helps the hunger emergency.

The dinner, which was hosted by the Italian President Giorgio Napolitano, started with a warm tomato salad with cheese followed by hand-made macaroni with ragu sauce, roast lamb with beans and summer truffles with eggplant, green beans and roast potatoes, cheese and a sweet pizza dessert made with almonds.

Also, on a separate menu the spouses of the leaders' dined had their choice between four starters before lamb with warm potato salad for the main course and hot and cold chocolate with fennel for dessert, prepared by two-star Michelin Chef Nico Romito.

Non-governmental organizations, such as Oxfam, have lobbying at G8 because of their lack of focus on African nations. The developing nations of Africa are being faced with increasing poverty and inequality that is being exacerbated by global economic crisis. Poor families are eating less, being evicted from their homes, and having to pull children out of school.

According to Oxfam, the situation is deteriorating further due to high food prices, the failure of rich countries to deliver on their aid promises, and the growing harmful impact of climate change.