Australia and New Zealand Invest in Pacific Island Disaster Preparedness

Australia and New Zealand have committed A$42.6 million to store humanitarian aid in the Pacific Islands, enhancing disaster response capabilities amid increasing climate disasters. The aid will be pre-positioned in 14 countries, allowing for rapid response in the first 48 hours post-emergency. Foreign ministers will discuss further at the Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga.

Australia and New Zealand have pledged A$42.6 million ($28.05 million) to aid Pacific Island countries in storing humanitarian supplies, preparing for escalating climate-induced disasters.

This investment aims to position aid in 14 countries to ensure rapid response capabilities within the first 48 hours of an emergency. The initiative addresses the remote locations and poor transport links of many Pacific Islands, enhancing local resilience.

Australia's Foreign Minister Penny Wong emphasized the importance of having accessible support when disaster strikes. Leaders from the Pacific Islands region are set to discuss this further at the upcoming Pacific Islands Forum in Tonga.

(With inputs from agencies.)