12.08.2010 - Oslo

Norway Gives 100 million to Flood Victims in Pakistan

Norway increases the monetary support to flood victims in Pakistan to 100 million.

The recent flood disaster in Pakistan turned into a huge humanitarian crisis. 14 million people have been affected in the worst flood disaster of 80 years. Six million of these people have an acute need for food. 288 000 houses have been demolished.

- We see a natural disaster having massive dimensions. Millions of people have lost their livelihoods, "said Foreign Minister Jonas Gahr Store .

The UN representatives in the region reported that at least 459 million U.S. dollars aid is needed for the country as the flood damage is not over and the rains continues in the areas affected from the disaster. The long-term needs of reconstruction is still enormous.

- It 's just painful to see the extent of the huge disaster. Many people are still isolated. We must reach vulnerable groups like children and women with clean water , tents , blankets and food. We must also do everything to stop the wave of diseases that come with the dirty flood waters , "said Environment and Development Minister Erik Solheim.

Norway had previously contributed 30 million NOK, and now decided to increase the amount to 100 million. The money is distributed among UN humanitarian agencies , the Red Cross Movement and NGOs with experience in Pakistan and the proximity to the victims. In addition Norway is allocating 3,5 million dollars to UNICEF, OCHA’s Emergency Response Fund and the Pakistani Red Crescent /The International Federation of the Red Cross (IFRC).