2 November 2001 Media Statement

Humanitarian focus on Afghanistan

“The Alliance has not agreed to, nor has the Government proposed, further offensive military responses to the war in Afghanistan. We are, however, prepared to make genuine efforts to assist with humanitarian needs,” said Alliance leader Jim Anderton today.

“The Alliance has pressed for a humanitarian focus in the Government’s response to the situation in Afghanistan.

“This enhanced humanitarian contribution may require, for example, a Hercules to transport food and medicine for refugees, engineers for refugee camps, a logistics team to coordinate relief efforts, and a medical team to work with refugees.

“Any involvement would be offered to the United Nations. Details for this focus are not yet finalised,” Jim Anderton said.

ENDS

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