Attachments
Tēnā koutou katoa [Greetings to you all], I would like to thank the UN, the UK, Germany and Qatar for convening this very significant event, in response to the UN’s largest ever appeal for humanitarian aid.
Aotearoa New Zealand is deeply concerned by the severe humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan.
The levels of severe food insecurity facing Afghan communities are dire: 8.7 million Afghans are at risk of famine-like conditions this year.
I am pleased to announce that Aotearoa New Zealand will contribute an additional six million New Zealand dollars: three to the World Food Programme and three to the Food and Agriculture Organisation. This funding will support both agencies’ critical efforts to prevent famine and strengthen food security in Afghanistan and bring Aotearoa New Zealand’s total support for the Afghan humanitarian response to twelve million New Zealand dollars since August last year.
We acknowledge the national and international humanitarian agencies that continue to deliver life-saving protection and assistance for Afghan communities in very difficult circumstances.
We encourage humanitarian partners to prioritise a localised and inclusive response that empowers affected Afghan communities and prioritises assistance for potentially at risk populations including women, children, persons with disabilities, and the elderly.
The pledges made at today’s event are another step in this crucial work but we know support will need to endure into the future as well.
Aotearoa New Zealand remains committed to supporting the Afghan people.
Nō reira tēnā koutou, tēnā koutou katoa [Once again, thank you, and greetings to you all]