Humanitarian Aid: Bulgaria Provides Over 2 Million BGN to Those in Need

The government approved the provision of humanitarian and development assistance worth over two million leva in support of those in need around the world. The decision, which was announced by the government press office, provides for the allocation of 2,382,390.5 leva to support various countries and regions.

Among the recipients of this aid is Ukraine, where military actions continue to cause suffering among the civilian population. Humanitarian aid will also be provided to the population of the Gaza Strip, Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq, Yemen, as well as other countries in need.

The financing, according to information from the press office, will be provided from the budget of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, intended for development assistance and humanitarian aid. The funds will be directed to a number of established international organizations playing a key role in providing assistance. These include the UNHCR, UNICEF, the International Committee of the Red Cross, the World Food Programme, the International Organization for Migration, the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs, the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs of the UN, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the UN Environment Programme, UN Women, the UN Population Fund, the European Endowment for Democracy, UNIDO, OSCE, and others.

The approved aid is in full compliance with the country's priorities in the field of development policy and humanitarian aid. The decision takes into account the humanitarian consequences of the ongoing war of Russia against Ukraine, as well as the situation in the Middle East, the current developments in Syria and Afghanistan. In accordance with the basic humanitarian principles, priority will be given to emergency actions in cases of natural and climatic disasters, as well as support for severe and prolonged humanitarian crises.

Bulgaria confirms its commitment to be part of the efforts of the European Union and the international community to overcome the most acute humanitarian challenges and alleviate the suffering of millions of people around the world. With its contribution, our country reinforces its positive image as a reliable donor of humanitarian and development assistance, while contributing to strengthening European and national security and development, the statement from the cabinet's press office says.

It is recalled that in May this year the government provided free humanitarian aid to Myanmar in the amount of nearly 200 thousand leva.