UNITED NATIONS, Jan. 22 (Xinhua) -- The United Nations, together with the Colombian government, launched on Wednesday a 342 million U.S. dollars humanitarian appeal for the needs of the most vulnerable people in Colombia.

The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Colombia, Mireia Villar Forner, said that the 2025 Humanitarian Response Plan for Community Priorities seeks to address the urgent needs of 2 million of the most vulnerable people in the country.

The plan aims to provide immediate relief, protect the rights of vulnerable populations, including women, children, and ethnic groups, and promote resilience. It focuses on empowering local communities and responders, particularly in critical areas, such as the Pacific region and the border with Venezuela.

"This plan reaffirms our commitment to the people of Colombia. Now, more than ever, it is time to keep solidarity alive, supporting communities according to their own priorities and strengthening their capacities," Forner said.

UN humanitarian agencies estimated that more than 9 million people need assistance across the country this year. ■