April 5, 2013
Canada is providing immediate life-saving assistance in support of people affected by flooding and severe weather in Bolivia, announced the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of International Cooperation. Canada is helping to ensure that families have access to emergency food assistance and that farms recover from crop damage.
"Canada's humanitarian assistance is helping to address the immediate needs of people suffering from the devastation of the floods and storms," said Minister Fantino. "We are ensuring that families affected by this crisis are receiving the immediate emergency support they need."
Canada's support will provide 2,000 flood-affected families, approximately 10,000 people, in Potosi and Chuquisaca with emergency food rations, as well as agricultural inputs including seeds and fertilizer, for 600 families.
Economic Action Plan 2013 reaffirms Canada's commitment to humanitarian work, such as this support for the people of Bolivia. As announced in EAP2013, the new Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development will maintain the mandate of poverty alleviation and humanitarian assistance.
"Canada's humanitarian support is a tangible expression of the best of Canadian values," said Minister Fantino. "Canada leaves no one behind and will continue to monitor the situation in Bolivia to ensure humanitarian needs are met."
Flooding, hailstorms and severe frost have affected approximately 21,000 families, mostly in rural areas of Bolivia. In addition, there has been significant damage to crops.
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For more information, media should contact:
Daniel Bezalel Richardsen
Press Secretary to the Minister of International Cooperation
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Email: danielbezalel.richardsen@acdi-cida.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA)
Telephone: 819-953-6534
Email: media@acdi-cida.gc.ca
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