Poland’s assistance for the Kurdistan Region of the Republic of Iraq
08.02.2021
- Poland does not forget about those in need, not only in our country but also around the world. Today, we are sending another humanitarian aid transport to Iraq in response to a great demand caused by the coronavirus pandemic and a war with the so-called Islamic State. Our intention is to support the medical services there in providing the necessary help to the inhabitants of Iraqi Kurdistan, - emphasised Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Paweł Jabłoński speaking about the aid dispatched today in coordination with the Ministry of National Defence, its subordinate air units, and the Material Reserves Agency. As part of the Poland’s relief effort for Iraq, the Material Reserves Agency has airlifted blankets, surgical gowns, towels and sheets which will reach the needy.
- Iraq and its Kurdistan Region are places with a strong link with Poland’s history. It is also where Polish non-governmental organisations provide everyday humanitarian assistance. Thanks to the mission and work of Polish soldiers and NGOs, we can support those who need help. Let us not forget that Poland contributes to the UNDP budget connected to stabilisation operations in Iraq every year, - said Deputy Minister Jabłoński.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, 2020 was a special year for the entire globe. Since April last year, Poland’s aid scheme has been also addressed to our partners whose epidemiological situation was equally severe; we delivered aid to the Eastern Partnership countries (Belarus, Ukraine, Georgia, Moldova), Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, as well as to the countries of the South Caucasus and the Western Balkans. We also ought to remember the flood-related support provided to Sudan, underlined the deputy head of Polish diplomacy.
Apart from the material assistance, Polish paramedics came to aid to those in need in Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, or Lebanon in connection with the Beirut port explosion, as well as provided assistance in the United States, and Italy. Polish medical services and soldiers from the Territorial Defense Forces helped in administering COVID-19 tests to drivers from all over Europe who got stuck in the UK on their way to France. Similar assistance was provided to the citizens of Slovakia.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Press Office
Photo: 8th Military Air Transport Base
