INTERNATIONAL AID FOR KATRINA:

[LadyEagle]

WASHINGTON - In a turnabout, the United States is now on the receiving end of help from around the world as some two dozen countries offer post-hurricane assistance.

Venezuela, a target of frequent criticism by the Bush administration, offered humanitarian aid and fuel. Venezuela's Citgo Petroleum Corp. pledged a $1 million donation for hurricane aid.

The United Nations informed U.S. Ambassador John R. Bolton it was prepared to support the relief effort "in any way possible." Under Secretary-General Jan Egeland said his office had offered the services of the U.N.'s disaster assistance and coordination teams to the U.S. Agency for International Development.

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon sent a letter to President Bush offering hundreds of doctors, nurses, technicians and other experts in trauma, natural disasters and public health.

"We also offer field hospitals, medical kits and equipment for temporary housing, reinforcement for hospitals, or any assistance that you may require," Sharon wrote.

He said the teams and equipment could be ready in 24 hours.

With offers from the four corners of the globe pouring in, Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice has decided "no offer that can help alleviate the suffering of the people in the afflicted area will be refused," State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said Thursday.

However, in Moscow, a Russian official said the U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency had rejected a Russian offer to dispatch rescue teams and other aid.

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Offers have been received from Russia, Japan, Canada, France, Honduras, Germany, Venezuela, Jamaica, Australia, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Greece, Hungary, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Mexico, China, South Korea, Israel, the United Arab Emirates, NATO and the Organization of American States, the spokesman said.

Source

 

[Jean Claude Petit]

This does not seems to be a populal topic... hue! I wonder why?

 

[Jim1999]

Don't forget Cuba. Mr. Castro offered physicians and medical staff and supplies. If I remember the news correctly, it was 1200 doctors!

It should also be noted that this aid was offered immediately when the disaster hit and we were all told that the USA could handle it.

The USA has not been ignored by the world.

Cheers,

Jim

We just sent $1000.00 to the Humane Society to help with animal rescue. They must not be ignored either. God gave us responsibility for the animals in Genesis.

 

[NaasPreacher (C4K)]

Tiny Ireland sent €1 million euro today ($1.25 million).

The EU has issued an official appeal to her member states to aid in the relief.

Argetina and Cuba have been at the forefront of offering practical aid in the way of doctors and reduced costs oil.

 

[TexasSky]

I am deeply touched that nations which have so little for their own will share with the wealthiest nation in the world.

I think it is important that we accept these funds, not for our sakes, but for theirs. No man should be denied the right to help his neighbor. There is a dignity in being able to say, "I helped."

God bless people from places that have so little and yet give so much, and God bless those who have much and give much.

 

[carpro]

All aid should be gratefully accepted as long as it comes without a "sermon" attached.

 

[TexasSky]

I don't even mind the sermons. We have given millions of sermons to other nations. Its their turn.

 

[carpro]

I remember on 911 when Rudy told a Saudi Prince to takes a hike along with the 10 Million dollars he offered as assistance, because of the "sermon" that came with it.

If you want to help, help. If you want to preach, preach. But please don't expect that one gives you the right to do the other.

 

[LorrieGrace]

It is usually those with the least that give the most. I read somewhere that the poorest give more to charities than the rich.

It is a blessing to see others wanting to help the US. And I am glad that the animals have not been forgotten, either. I know that it would make me extremely upset if something happened to my dog. She is like a child to me.