MEDIA RELEASE
Released By:
Downer
Australia will make a significant contribution to international humanitarian relief efforts in North Korea.
I have received grave reports about the severity of the crisis in North Korea, following briefings from an Australian Government representative on a recent World Food Programme (WFP) mission to North Korea. These reports have been confirmed by my parliamentary colleagues the Hon. Gareth Evans MP, and Mr Kevin Rudd MP, who have also recently visited the country and discussed their visit with me.
It is evident that urgent and continuing assistance is needed to address the humanitarian crisis in North Korea that has occurred as a result of food shortages. Malnutrition for children aged under seven is at chronic levels. Famine conditions are believed to persist in some parts of the country.
Australia will provide immediate assistance of $4 million to meet the pressing nutritional needs of children. Of this amount Australia will provide $3.25 million to the World Food Program to purchase food, spare parts and refurbish plant and equipment for local high energy biscuit production, and equipment for a blended food processing plant.
Australia will contribute $250,000 to UNICEF for vitamins and minerals for the local production of Corn Soya Blend which is a highly nutritious food provided to young children.
Addressing the health needs of those most at risk - children, mothers and elderly people - is also crucial. The International Federation of the Red Cross will receive $500,000 for the distribution of basic drugs and supplies, as well as for health education to improve survival skills and support for the provision of items such as coal, blankets, bed sheets and plastic sheeting for hospitals.
An increased contribution of $6 million will be made next financial year - an increase of 50 per cent on this year's allocation, bringing Australia's total package of new assistance to $10 million.
This package of assistance is designed to encourage the Government of North Korea to take the necessary actions to improve food production and distribution.
Media contacts:
Innes Willox (Minister's Office) - 02 6277 7500 or 0419 206 890
Matt Francis (AusAID) - (02) 6206 4960 or 0417 683 126