Sydney: Australian Prime Minister
Julia Gillard on Wednesday committed two military planes to assist
relief efforts in Pakistan, saying Australians wanted to help
those facing catastrophic floods.
The C-17 Globemaster aircraft, which will deliver
emergency supplies, are in addition to the USD 9.04 million in
aid Australia had already committed, she said.
"Many Australians are deeply concerned by the
worsening humanitarian crisis as the rains continue," Gillard
said in a statement.
The floods have left six million people dependent
on humanitarian help for their survival, according to the
United Nations, which has estimated that 1,600 people have
died as a result of the rains.
Gillard said the unfolding disaster in Pakistan
required a global response and Australia was committed to
helping the country recover and rebuild.
"As Pakistan`s needs become clearer, Australia will
consider what further assistance to provide," the prime
minister said.
PTI
