OTTAWA – The Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of International Development and Minister for La Francophonie, and the Honourable John Baird, Minister of Foreign Affairs, announced today Canadian support to address the catastrophic effects of Typhoon Haiyan.
Canada will provide up to $5 million in support to humanitarian organizations striving to meet the needs of the people affected by this typhoon in the Philippines and surrounding regions. Emergency relief activities will include the provision of emergency shelter, food, water, livelihood support, and other essential services.
“Canada is deeply concerned by the impact of this catastrophic typhoon,” said Minister Paradis. “We continue to monitor the situation closely and are working with Canadian and international humanitarian partners to determine what assistance is required.”
The situation related to Typhoon Haiyan is evolving rapidly. The strongest typhoon this year, it slammed into the Philippines on Friday, November 8, 2013, setting off landslides, knocking out power in several provinces, and cutting communications in the country's central region of island provinces. The typhoon is now on its way toward Vietnam, where it is expected to make landfall tomorrow, November 10. Significant loss of life, a large number of injuries, as well as destruction of property have been reported. Nearly 4.3 million people are reportedly affected, and although needs assessments are ongoing, humanitarian needs are expected to be substantial.
“In addition to the support announced today, Canada has provided support through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to provide immediate assistance to those affected by Typhoon Haiyan,” said Minister Paradis.
“The destruction is alarming, and Canada will continue to ensure needs are being met,” said Minister Baird. “Canada remains committed to supporting the most vulnerable people around the world. Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this devastating storm.”
The Government of Canada will continue to monitor the situation to ensure humanitarian needs are met and provide further assistance if required.
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For more information, media should contact:
Margaux Stastny, Director of Communications
Office of the Minister of International Development and Minister for La Francophonie
Telephone: 819-953-6238
Email: margaux.stastny@international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada (DFATD)
Telephone: 819-995-1874
Email: media@international.gc.ca
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