14 February 2019, Rome--- Pope Francis today called for advances in innovation and entrepreneurship to transform rural communities and eradicate malnutrition, stating that "science with conscience" was needed to help the world's poor and hungry. He made the call at the inaugural ceremony of the 42nd IFAD Governing Council which is being held at the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters today and tomorrow.

The Prime Minister of Italy Giuseppe Conte and the President of the Dominican Republic Danilo Medina Sanchez also attended the event, along with other dignitaries.