UN Chief: Aid ‘Lifeline’ Needed in Afghanistan

NEW YORK - U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres urged nations on Monday to show their solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and contribute hundreds of millions of dollars for an urgent and expansive humanitarian response in the country. This morning I have landed in Kabul. During my visit I will assess the country’s acute humanitarian needs and the situation of 3.5 million displaced Afghans.I am grateful to all UN, NGO and other humanitarian workers who are working hard on the ground to meet those needs. pic.twitter.com/8i8FDuVHoa

“The people of Afghanistan need a lifeline,” Guterres told nations gathered in Geneva. “This conference is not simply about what we will give to the people of Afghanistan, it is about what we owe,” he added.   The U.N. is appealing for $606 million for the remainder of this year for food, health care, shelter and other vital needs to assist 11 million people.