Azerbaijan, Baku, February 1 / Trend , E.Ostapenko/
The European Commission has allocated €7.295 million to help Central Asian countries reduce their vulnerability to natural disasters and to boost the coping capacities of the most affected populations, official press release of the organization says.
Karel De Gucht, the Commissioner responsible for Development and Humanitarian Aid, said this funding will help vulnerable people in a region that is experiencing an increasing number of natural disasters to prepare and protect themselves better.
The funds will be channelled through ECHO, Commission's Humanitarian Aid department.
The projects will be implemented by non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and international organisations including United Nations agencies.
According to De Gucht, it is vital to raise awareness among local populations about changes in their environment, and to give them the tools to adapt to climate change.
Since 2003, Central Asia has been targeted for funding in disaster preparedness and risk reduction.