23/06/2022 (Agence Europe) – In solidarity with the Afghan people bereaved by the powerful earthquake that struck the east of the country on Wednesday 22 June, the European Union is immediately mobilising €1 million in initial humanitarian aid to cover the country’s most urgent needs, the European Commission announced on Thursday 23 June. Needs assessment is ongoing, and the EU is ready to provide further assistance, says European Commissioner for Crisis Management, Janez Lenarčič. At least 1,000 people were killed and 1,500 injured in the earthquake. Two hundred and seventy thousand people are reportedly in need of emergency assistance. On Wednesday evening, in a joint statement, EU High Representative Josep Borrell and the Commissioner provided assurances that “the Union stands in full solidarity with the Afghan people” facing “one of the world’s worst humanitarian crises”. The aid will be channelled through the EU’s humanitarian partner organisations. (AN)