22 Sep 2010

High Commission wants to raise awareness of flood

4:03 pm on 22 September 2010

Strategies to raise awareness of the flood disaster in Pakistan have been discussed in a meeting at Pakistan's High Commission in Wellington.

Aid agencies, community and religious leaders attended to talk about ways they can work together to enhance New Zealand's contribution to the flooded country.

High Commissioner Syed Ibne Abbas said that while he is grateful for New Zealand's support so far, the true extent of the disaster is not commonly understood.

He said one-fifth of Pakistan is currently underwater.

Mr Abbas said the flooded land was once considered the bread basket of Pakistan where all of the country's wheat and cash crops were grown.

He said the economic effect of the floods could be felt for a generation.