MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
The Australian Government is greatly concerned by the devastation and disruption
to life in Cambodia caused by ongoing flooding of the Mekong River.
The Australian Government's overseas aid program will contribute $2 million
to assist the World Food Programme in a range of flood relief activities. Although
the Cambodian Government has been actively leading the emergency response operation,
its relief resources and food stocks have been severely depleted.
This year's monsoon floods are the worst recorded in Cambodia for the past
30 years, affecting more than 2.2 million people 20 percent of the country's
population.
The funding from Australia will provide immediate food relief to flood victims.
After floodwaters have receded, WFP will distribute food to people to carry
out major repair work required to their homes and communities.
Australia's contribution of $2 million will contribute significantly to the
WFP's efforts to help an estimated 850,000 Cambodians over the next six months.
Media Contacts:
James Baker (Ministerial) 02 6277 7500 / 0419 206 890
Fionna Douglas (AusAID) 02 6206 4960 / 0412 804 489