MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Gallus
Australia will contribute up to $20 million in additional reconstruction
assistance for the people of Iraq, Parliamentary Secretary for Foreign Affairs,
Mrs Chris Gallus, announced today at the International Donors' Conference in
Madrid.
'The $20 million will contribute to Iraqi needs in agriculture, water
resources, food security, health and education and be channelled through a Multi
Donor Trust Fund established by the United Nations and the World Bank,' Mrs
Gallus said.
'Australia will help in these priority areas identified in a recent World
Bank/United Nations Needs Assessment Report.
'Our aid is addressing the immediate needs of the Iraqi people and has helped
avert a humanitarian crisis.
'The additional contribution builds on the $100 million Australia has already
committed to Iraq.
'The $100 million contribution included $55 million to meet urgent
humanitarian needs such as health, water, sanitation, child protection, mine
action, and food provision and distribution.
'It also included $45 million for reconstruction activities focusing on
revitalising the agricultural sector.
'We are using our local expertise to support areas such as agricultural
research, extension and training, grain handling and distribution, irrigation,
salinity and water management.
'Australian support is also helping Iraq's transition to a stable, open,
market based economy,' Mrs Gallus said.
Media contacts:
Shane Fairlie (Mrs Gallus' office) 02 6277 4840 / 0408 680 442
Jo Elsom (AusAID) 02 6206 4960 / 0412 804 489