Catherine Colonna, the French Foreign Minister, announced this Monday morning a dedicated fund of 5 million euros from the ministry’s reserves to support non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in Morocco.
These funds aim to aid both international and French NGOs involved in rescue and rehabilitation efforts following the catastrophic earthquake that hit Morocco, resulting in the loss of over two thousand lives.
In her statement today, Colonna said, “This morning, I’ve decided to release 5 million euros from the ministry’s reserve funds for NGOs. Additionally, we are opening our external effort fund for local authorities, allowing French regions to make financial contributions,” as confirmed by Colonna.
Regarding Morocco’s choice not to respond to France’s offer of assistance immediately, Colonna emphasized that Morocco is a sovereign nation and makes its own choices. “Morocco decided to prioritize receiving aid by reaching out to specific countries individually, and not by accepting aid that doesn’t align with their needs,” she said.
Colonna reiterated France’s position, saying, “We remain ready to assist whenever Morocco requests in the short to medium term.” She mentioned that President Emmanuel Macron has been in touch with the King of Morocco. “Initially, President Macron called the Moroccan monarch, but he was in a meeting at the time. Several messages have since been exchanged between the two leaders,” she added.
The Foreign Minister also highlighted that around 20,000 French nationals were in the earthquake-affected region. As per the latest reports, four French individuals lost their lives, while 15 were injured.
The latest figures released by the Moroccan Interior Ministry state that the devastating earthquake has claimed 2,122 lives and injured 2,421 individuals in various regions and cities in Morocco.
Natural calamities, like earthquakes, often elicit international responses and support. Morocco, a nation in North Africa, recently experienced one such tragic event, prompting nations globally, including France, to step forward with offers of aid and assistance.
