August 3, 2011
Ottawa, Ontario ― One year ago, Pakistan experienced an extensive flood that moved across the country and impacted more than 20 million people. I personally witnessed the hardship experienced by the Pakistani people during my visit last year. The floods devastated agricultural communities, destroying vast areas of farmland and killing livestock.
Canada quickly provided help, along with the international community, to millions of Pakistanis who needed humanitarian assistance. With Canada's help, they received shelter, food, drinking water, sanitation, health care, and the restoration of livelihoods.
The support of CIDA has helped humanitarian organizations deliver much-needed food assistance to 8.7 million people across 62 flood-affected districts, supply clean drinking water to 5.1 million individuals, provide more than 34 million medical consultations, and assist 900,000 Pakistani farm families resume crucial food production.
Despite considerable progress, many challenges remain. The 2010 monsoon floods worsened pre-existing health and nutrition concerns throughout Pakistan.
Canada will continue to work with the people of Pakistan so they can resume their lives and protect their health as the recovery continues. Pakistan's people have shown remarkable courage and strength.
The Government of Canada remains committed to global efforts to help them rebound from this natural disaster.
Beverley J. Oda
Minister of International Cooperation
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Information:
Justin Broekema
Press Secretary to the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Email: justin.broekema@acdi-cida.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
E-mail: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca
