Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator Neil Buhne Statement on the Afghanistan/Pakistan Earthquake

(Islamabad, 29 October 2015): The United Nations team in Pakistan offers our deepest sympathies to all those that have been affected by the Badakshan earthquake. This event is made more poignant occurring so soon after the ten-year anniversary of the devastating Kashmir earthquake, which claimed ten of thousands of lives in 2005. Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon said his thoughts and those of the international community are with the people of Pakistan and Afghanistan, as are those of the humanitarian community; both within Pakistan and around the world.

The response to the earthquake by the Government, military forces, civil society and the communities themselves has been both brave and effective. It demonstrates the national capacity built over the last decade to deal with humanitarian crisis triggered by natural disasters. Notably, the timely and effective response by the National and Provincial Disaster Management Authorities is commendable. United Nations agencies and their partners stand ready to support government-led relief operations if requested. Agencies are mobilizing their resources and emergency stocks as a preparatory measure in case their assistance is required.

Pakistan is home to some of the most resilient people I have met; people who have not lost courage and hope in the face of adversity despite having to overcome tragedy and rebuild their lives time and time again. My colleagues and I are confident that they will persevere on this occasion - and we stand ready to support them as they do.