MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Smith
Australia stands with the democratically elected Government of Pakistan in the fight to defeat terrorism and extremism.
Today I reinforced that message when I attended the Friends of Pakistan Ministerial meeting at the United Nations.
The Friends of Pakistan brings together countries who are committed to helping Pakistan tackle its economic, social and security challenges.
The meeting was chaired by Pakistan President Zardari and co-convened by the United Kingdom, United States and the United Arab Emirates.
Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Turkey, as well as representatives of the European Union and the United Nations also participated.
The problem of terrorism and extremism in the Afghanistan-Pakistan border area has major regional and international security implications. The international community must cooperate with the Government of Pakistan to tackle this threat to the security of Pakistan, Afghanistan, South Asia and the world.
Australia, as a friend of Pakistan, will assist Pakistan as the international community deals with this challenge.
I also affirmed at the Friends of Pakistan meeting that Australia stood ready to assist Pakistan with its pressing economic and social challenges.
Australia will provide $3 million for relief and recovery support for internally flood affected communities and displaced people in the North West Frontier Province and Punjab Province.
$2 million will support the United Nations' Humanitarian Response Plan, which focuses on the immediate and medium term needs of affected communities, including provision of food, clean water, sanitation, and shelter.
The remaining $1 million will be provided to the International Committee of the Red Cross for humanitarian support including clean water, sanitation facilities and essential household items.
Media Contacts:
Mr Smith's Office: Courtney Hoogen on 0488 244901
Departmental : (02) 6261 1555