U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres is appealing to the world to help Pakistan after arriving in the country to see flood damage. The record floods have killed hundreds and left more than half a million people homeless and living in tents.
“The visit will also help in realizing the consequences of the deadly effects of climate change,” said, urging the international community to step up efforts to help poor countries affected by floods and natural disasters.
So far, U.N. agencies and several countries have sent nearly 60 planeloads of aid, and authorities say the United Arab Emirates is one of the most generous contributors, as it has sent so far 26 flights carrying aid or flood victims. The United States said it will provide $30 million in assistance to help flood victims.
Mohenjo Daro is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the U.N. heritage agency on Thursday announced an emergency amount of $350,000 to help recover flood-damaged cultural heritage sites. Before the U.N. chief’s arrival, Sharif told a visiting American diplomat that the world should step up its fight against climate change to avoid more deadly flooding. Derek Chollet, a senior State Department official, was visiting Islamabad to assess damages and arrange for aid.According to the government’s statement, Chollet affirmed that the U.S. would stand by Pakistan in the wake of the floods and extend help to help people rebuild.