New Zealand and Australia have announced a joint initiative to establish humanitarian relief warehouses across the Pacific, with a combined investment of NZ$47.5 million. The announcement was made by the foreign ministers of both nations during the Pacific Islands Forum Foreign Ministers Meeting in Suva.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters highlighted the region’s vulnerability to natural disasters such as cyclones, earthquakes, tsunamis, and disease outbreaks, noting that these events often lead to significant humanitarian needs. “This initiative places Pacific countries at the center of responses,” Peters said. “It will give countries access to humanitarian relief supplies within 48 hours of a disaster, helping to meet immediate needs following an emergency.”
The Pacific Humanitarian Warehousing Program will see warehouses constructed in 14 Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste, ensuring that essential supplies are readily available when disaster strikes. Australia and New Zealand will collaborate with international partners, including the United States, France, Germany, Japan, and the United Kingdom, to implement the program.
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong praised the initiative, describing it as a Pacific-led effort that demonstrates effective regional cooperation. “Australia and New Zealand are proud to back it to help ensure there is easily accessible support and supplies on the ground for communities when disaster strikes,” Wong said.
