. Support includes direct financial assistance to relief organizations and donation of essential medicines, including pain relieving drugs
. Employees encouraged to make personal contributions to nationally recognized relief organizations to be matched with company funds
Basel, March 17, 2011 - Novartis has committed to providing the equivalent of over USD 3 million in immediate relief aid to the victims of the recent earthquake in Japan. The support includes both direct financial aid to relief agencies as well as donations of essential medicines, including pain relieving drugs.

"It is still difficult to fully comprehend the human impact of the recent natural disaster in Japan as well as the continued uncertainty hanging over the citizens and residents of that country," said Dr. Daniel Vasella, Chairman of Novartis. "We are committed to provide humanitarian relief to those affected. We are also working closely with our team in Japan to maintain the continuity of our business operations, to ensure that physicians and patients continue receiving the medicines they need."

Novartis employees worldwide are encouraged to make cash contributions to nationally recognized relief organizations in support of the victims of the earthquake. These donations will then be matched by the company.

The company will also work with relief organizations as well as the Japanese authorities to identify where assistance can be provided on a longer-term basis to ensure that there is sustainable support for people impacted by this tragic natural disaster.