(a) The Director is authorized to encourage and otherwise assist any insurance companies and other insurers which meet the requirements prescribed under subsection (b) of this section to form, associate, or otherwise join together in a pool
(1) in order to provide the flood insurance coverage authorized under subchapter I of this chapter; and
(2) for the purpose of assuming, on such terms and conditions as may be agreed upon, such financial responsibility as will enable such companies and other insurers, with the Federal financial and other assistance available under this chapter, to assume a reasonable proportion of responsibility for the adjustment and payment of claims for losses under the flood insurance program.