The Minister, Erik Solheim said that both Indonesia and the Philippines requested assistance after violent earthquakes and floods. “Norway, therefore provides 20 million for the supportive activities after these natural disasters,” added Solheim.He also called Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla in the aftermath of the earthquake in Padang.
The Norwegian support goes to the UN, Red Cross and NGOs who are present in these two countries. The money will strengthen the local relief effort.
The UN is already working with the Indonesian and Philippine governments to map out what the urgent needs are. Norway has also contributed 300 million to UN emergency relief fund. The fund is used to help countries affected by thesee kinds of acute disasters. Red Cross’s disaster relief fund has also been contributed by Norway.
