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UN calls for 233 million USD in Libya aid

Other News Materials 18 May 2011 23:53 (UTC +04:00)
The United Nations called for an additional 233 million U.S. dollars to help around 2.1 million civilians affected by the ongoing conflict in Libya
UN calls for 233 million USD in Libya aid

The United Nations called for an additional 233 million U.S. dollars to help around 2.1 million civilians affected by the ongoing conflict in Libya, UN spokesman Martin Nesirky told reporters Wednesday.

As the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate in the North African country, UN humanitarian chief Valerie Amos warned member states of widespread shortages in resources, Xinhua reported.

"The conflict, the breakdown of state infrastructure, and shortages of cash and fuel are causing problems for the population of Libya," Amos said in Geneva on Wednesday.

"Widespread shortages are paralyzing the country in ways which will gravely impact the general population in the weeks and months ahead; particularly the poorest and most vulnerable," she added.

The call for additional funds comes after an initial flash appeal of 160 million U.S. dollars issued in early March that was based on projections of up to 400,000 people fleeing Libya and another 600,000 needing help within, noted the UN spokesman.

The revised appeal announced on Wednesday is expected to provide funds to last until the beginning of September, said Nesirky. "As of today more than 800,000 people have fled Libya and up to 1.6 million people require assistance within its borders," he added.

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