Press release
18 January 2010
Ministry for Foreign Affairs
Gunilla Carlsson on the earthquake in Haiti
Minister for International Development Cooperation Gunilla Carlsson feels deep concern and compassion for all those who have suffered from the powerful earthquake in Haiti yesterday afternoon.
"It is still very unclear how many people have died or been injured in this major natural disaster, but there is a risk that victims may number in the thousands. They include international personnel serving in the UN peace-keeping mission in the country."
"Apart from expressing our deep distress and our commitment to the people and Government of Haiti, we must do all we can to ensure a speedy and effective rescue and relief operation, despite the serious challenges."
"Even before this disaster, Sweden was contributing considerable support to the resources of various UN organisations and humanitarian NGOs in Haiti, so they should be able to respond quickly to the immediate needs. Funds and equipment are available there for immediate use. For example, Sweden is the second largest donor to the United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) and in addition to this, in 2009 the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) contributed SEK 24m to a similar local fund for Haiti."
"Over and above this, we have preparedness for requests for support from the UN system and via the European Commission, in response to the appeal of the Haitian Government for international help. Sida is prepared to contribute support to the Swedish Civil Contingencies Agency, which has great experience of providing equipment and personnel to support urgent humanitarian operations."
Contact
Peter Larsson+46 8 405 10 00
