The Embassy of Pakistan, Oslo organized a fundraising charity event on 20 September to show support and solidarity and to raise donations to help alleviate plight of people affected by flash floods in Pakistan. The event was attended by over 300 participants including representatives from key Norwegian organizatons, Norwegian and Pakistani journalists, politicians, students, religious figures, friends of Pakistan etc.

The speakers included Dr. Arshad Sultan, Pakistan Culture Association Skedsmo, Mr. Kadafi Zaman, TV2 journalist, Syed Niamat Ali Shah, Imam Central Jamaat e Ahle Sunnat, Ms. Margrethe Volden, Head of Asia Division dealing Pakistan, Norwegian Church Aid, Mr. Atta Ansari, NRK Journalist, Professor Naseer Ahmed Noori, Bazm e Naqshband. Recorded Video message of Mr. Dagfinn Hoybraten, Secretary General, Norwegian Church Aid was also screened.  

The speakers highlighted latest situation of the flood and widespread destruction in a large part of Pakistan. They made an impassioned appeal to the community to step forward and help affectees, who have been hit by unprecedented monsoon rains and floods. Mr. Kadafi Zaman and Mr. Atta Ansari, who have recently visited Pakistan to cover the floods situation, gave firsthand briefing. It was highlighted that Pakistan suffered huge loss to its agriculture, industry, damage to public and private infrastructure, roads, railways, bridges, demolished and commercial buildings etc. The speakers mentioned the likeliness of food insecurity in Pakistan due to massive crops damaged and perished livestock.

In his remarks, Ambassador Babar Amin highlighted the plight of people affected due to the floods. He stated that one-third of the country’s land has been under water for several weeks now. The Ambassador mentioned that the Norwegian government has announced a total of NOK 80 million aid for the relief and food security of people for which people of Pakistan are grateful to them. He also mentioned that Pakistan is engaging with the Norwegian government, to establish a meaningful cooperation to counter climate-driven catastrophe.

The Ambassador thanked all the sponsors and appreciated contributions announced on the occasion. He said that our community has not only been making huge contributions towards strengthening Pakistan-Norway ties but has always been at the forefront in responding to any call for help from Pakistan.

At the end, appreciation certificates were distributed by the Ambassador to head of Pakistani organizations and individuals who generously contributed in this noble cause.

The event raised a sum of NOK 605000 including prior transfers and pledges.

Oslo

22 September 2022