For Immediate Release
December 29, 2004

Global Message

The United States sends its sincere condolences for the loss of life and suffering in the Bay of Bengal region.

There has been an initial commitment of $15 million to support the relief efforts. USAID has just recently added $20 million to that, for the earthquake relief. Included in that is $2 million for Sri Lanka, $1 million for Indonesia, $100,000 each for India, the Maldives and Thailand; as well, an additional $4 million has been sent to the International Red Cross to support their efforts.

U.S. disaster response officials are in place or en route to Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, and Indonesia.

The United States military is also playing a role. The Thailand government has offered the United States a base to use as a regional support center in the recovery effort. A dozen C-130s are hauling in relief supplies, including food, water, blankets, and emergency shelter.

The United States will continue its history of generosity to those in need, and will work with the United Nations, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, NGOs, and the international community.