June 24, 2013
AJAX — The prolonged crises in Afghanistan have left many Afghans highly vulnerable, with many suffering food insecurity and displacement from their homes. Today, Chris Alexander, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Defence and MP for Ajax-Pickering, on behalf of the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of International Cooperation, that life-saving assistance will be provided in response to humanitarian appeals for the people of Afghanistan.
"Afghanistan has been suffering armed conflict for decades, and the country suffers from recurrent natural disasters," said PS Chris Alexander. "The crises have left Afghans highly vulnerable. Canada's support will help ensure that life-saving humanitarian assistance, including food, water and shelter, are provided to the most vulnerable people."
Afghanistan continues to experience frequent but small-scale natural disasters affecting around 250,000 Afghans annually. In 2012 alone, 440 natural disaster incidents were reported, killing 441 people and destroying as many as 27,430 homes. As well, some 4.5 million people—approximately one-third of Afghanistan's population—are severely food insecure.
"Canadian values of compassion and concern for those facing adversity are clearly expressed through our international humanitarian assistance," said Minister Fantino. "Our government will continue to provide help to the millions of Afghans who are suffering due to the lack of food and the hundreds of thousands without shelter."
Canada provides humanitarian assistance to the most vulnerable people facing conflict and natural disasters. The Government's Economic Action Plan 2013 affirms Canada's commitment to providing humanitarian assistance. The new Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development will maintain the mandate of poverty alleviation and will help Canada achieve greater efficiency, accountability, and focus to continue to improve the lives of people in need around the world.
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