August 13, 2008

PRESS RELEASE

 

 

Embassy of Romania has initiated a fund raising campaign
in support of flood relief efforts in Romania

The Embassy of Romania in Washington has initiated a fund raising campaign in support of the flood relief efforts in Romania, following the severe flooding which recently affected the northern part of the country, including the counties of Botosani, Iasi, Bacau, Vaslui, Maramures, Neamt..

Approximately 27,000 people have suffered from flooding, almost 5,600 homes have been completely or partially damaged, agricultural lands have been destroyed, the transport infrastructure, roads and levees have been affected and need total reconstruction or repairs (list of flood effects). Flood damages are estimated to €500 millions ($785 millions).

The Romanian authorities have implemented a set of measures meant to address the tremendous challenges posed by the flooding. These measures are focused on the immediate support for the affected people, as well as on the consolidation or reconstruction of the houses and infrastructure elements hit by waters. Alongside the efforts of the authorities, Romanians have been actively involved in the recovery actions through donations and voluntary work.

Beyond the domestic actions, the international solidarity is extremely important for the effectiveness of the recovery efforts. The US Government has offered $ 50,000 as emergency humanitarian assistance.

Those who want to support the recovery efforts can send a check to the Embassy of Romania in Washington DC (1607 23rd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008), making it payable to “Embassy of Romania – Flood Relief Fund”.