US announced additional $10M aid for flood affectees as US secretary of State Antony Blinken met Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari in Washington D.C.
In a meeting, both leaders discussed various issues of mutual interest. Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said that Pakistan wants the help and cooperation of the United States (US) to deal with the devastating flood situation caused by climate change. The country is facing a huge natural calamity and disaster which has affected millions of people.
The US Secretary of State expressed his condolences and solidarity with Pakistan for the loss of precious human lives and economic losses. He also reiterated his commitment to continue cooperation with Pakistan to address the challenges of rehabilitation and reconstruction.
Blinken said, “We stand with Pakistan even today, as we stood during natural calamities in the past and are also with us in the process of reconstruction”. Furthermore, Blinken urged Pakistan to discuss debt relief with China because of the flood-induced situation.
The US has already provided $56.1 million in aid to Pakistan and has so far sent 17 planes carrying relief supplies to Pakistan. Another $10 million will be given to the food security program.
Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto thanked the US for providing remarkable aid and support in this difficult time. During the press conference, Bilawal Bhutto also invited Antony Blinken to visit Pakistan.
