Norway to provide NOK 100 million to flood victims in Pakistan

Norway is increasing its support for flood victims in Pakistan to NOK 100 million.

The flood disaster in Pakistan is an enormous humanitarian crisis. It has affected 14 million people, six million of whom are in need of emergency food assistance. So far, 288.000 homes have been washed away.  

Norwegian Minister of Foreign Affairs Jonas Gahr Støre commented: «We are witnessing a natural disaster of  enormous dimensions and tremendous human suffering. Several million people have lost their livelihoods. This disaster is the latest in serious of political challenges in Pakistan, which underscores the seriousness of  the situation.»  

The UN announced yesterday that at least USD 459 million is needed for emergency relief in the country. The flooding is continuing to cause devastation, and rain is still falling in the affected areas. The long-term needs for reconstruction are enormous. 

Minister of the Environment and International Development Erik Solheim commented: «It is very distressing to see the extent of this huge disaster. Many people are still isolated. We need to get clean water, tents, blankets and food to vulnerable groups such as women and children. We must also do everything in our power to stop the wave of disease that the contaminated flood water is bringing with it.» 

Norway has already provided NOK 30 million in emergency relief, and is now increasing this figure to NOK 100 million. These funds will be channelled through the UN’s humanitarian organisations, the Red Cross movement and other NGOs that have experience of working in Pakistan and are in close proximity to the victims. 

Press contacts:
Press duty officer for the Minister of Foreign Affairs: +47 23 95 00 02
Press duty officer for the Minister of the Environment and International Development: +47 913 95 000