France announces €500,000 grant for KP flood relief

By Jamila Achakzai
September 24, 2025
People move to safe locations amid heavy rains in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on August 15, 2025. — X/@GovernmentKP
People move to safe locations amid heavy rains in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on August 15, 2025. — X/@GovernmentKP

ISLAMABAD, September 23, 2025: France has pledged continued support for Pakistan’s climate resilience efforts, with Ambassador Nicolas Galey announcing a grant of €500,000 to aid flood-hit communities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Speaking at a special ceremony at his residence on Tuesday, Ambassador Galey described the assistance as “a concrete solidarity from the French people with Pakistan,” adding that it would support 3,000 households—around 21,000 individuals—in Buner and Swat districts.

“As the 2025 flood season unfolded in tragic circumstances across the country, starting with the dire losses in Buner and Swat, France closely followed the situation including with the help of our network of French NGOs active in the field,” he said.

The envoy conveyed his “deepest sympathy and condolences” to Pakistanis affected by the disaster, noting that the floods not only claimed lives but also devastated infrastructure, water and sanitation facilities, education, and livelihoods, particularly among vulnerable groups. Under the ACTED-led project funded by France, targeted households will benefit from employment opportunities, shelter and water system rehabilitation, hygiene kits, and livelihood support. “ACTED will work to promote and restore their dignity and resilience, and will implement the project in full coordination and transparency with relevant authorities,” Galey added.

Recalling France’s support during Pakistan’s 2022 floods, the ambassador said this year’s devastation once again highlighted the urgent need for assistance. “The French government decided to allow a first grant of €500,000 in order to express a concrete solidarity,” he remarked.

Warning that climate change poses an ongoing threat to Pakistan, Galey reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting the country in both bilateral and multilateral climate initiatives. “Our commitment remains constant—whether in international fora to advance the global fight against climate change, or through direct support to the Pakistani people in times of crisis,” he said.

The ambassador also commended ACTED’s quick response and praised the quality of its project. He thanked the French embassy staff and other NGOs for their cooperation in assisting flood-affected communities.