Islamabad, 26 October 2022 (TDI): The US Ambassador to Pakistan, Donald Blome called on Pakistan’s Foreign Minister, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari at the Foreign Office.
Both officials discussed ways to strengthen bilateral ties. Global and regional matters were also discussed during the meeting.
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari appreciated the US support in post-flood recovery and rehabilitation of flood-affected people. Both officials also reiterated investment in the green energy sector.
US Flood Assistance
Since June this year, heavier-than-usual monsoon rains have caused floods in Pakistan. Due to this climate crisis, a state of emergency had been declared in the state. The floods in the country affected people from every province and sector.
The death toll due to recent floods is estimated to be nearly 1400 and an estimated 33 million people have been affected. The infrastructure has been damaged and the agricultural sector has suffered the worst shock.
As Pakistan is an agricultural economy, it has been hit by floods with an estimated loss of worth $40 billion. The US has been providing assistance to the country for flood recovery and rehabilitation of the people.
Since August 2022, over $50.1 million has been provided by the US for flood assistance. The aid is provided by the US to Pakistan through United States Agency for International Development (USAID).
Also read: Saudi assistance for flood victims in Pakistan
A Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) has been established by USAID to lead the US humanitarian response efforts in Pakistan.
The team includes USAID disaster experts who analyze the disaster situation, access damage and identify priority needs. These are then coordinated with the government of Pakistan and humanitarian partners.
Along with this, USAID continues to provide emergency relief supplies, multi-purpose cash and shelter assistance, support for livelihoods, and logistics. The US has time and again reaffirmed its commitment to support Pakistan through this crisis situation.
