Norway allocates NOK 20 million to Asia

Minister of the Environment and International Development Erik Solheim has pledged 20 NOK million in emergency relief to Indonesia and the Philippines. These densely populated countries have been struck by two major natural disasters in the space of a few days’ time.

“Both Indonesia and the Philippines are requesting assistance after experiencing violent earthquakes and severe flooding. Norway is therefore allocating NOK 20 million to efforts to alleviate the effects of these devastating natural disasters,” said Minister of the Environment and International Development Erik Solheim

Mr Solheim phoned Indonesian Vice President Jusuf Kalla on Thursday to express his condolences following the earthquake in Padang.
 
 “What is happening now in Indonesia and the Philippines is heartbreaking. Children have lost their parents. Parents and grandparents have lost their children,” said Mr Solheim.
 
The Norwegian assistance will go to the UN, the Red Cross and NGOs that are present in the two countries. The funds will be used to strengthen the local relief effort.

The UN is already working together with the Indonesian and Philippine authorities to identify the needs of those affected. Norway has also contributed NOK 300 million to the UN Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), which is used to assist countries affected by acute disasters such as these. The Red Cross Disaster Relief Emergency Fund has also received Norwegian funds.

Press contact: Head of Information Trond Viken (MFA), mobile phone: +47 992 18 303.