White House News
President and Mrs. Bush Extend Condolences to Victims of Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh
President and Mrs. Bush offer condolences to the victims of Cyclone Sidr in Bangladesh, especially those who have lost
loved ones, homes, and livelihoods in this tragedy. The United States Government has provided an initial contribution of
2.1 million dollars for emergency relief.
Additionally, the USS Essex and the USS Kearsarge are en route to Bangladesh to assist in operations there. USAID will
airlift 35 tons of non-food items such as plastic sheeting, jerricans, hygiene kits and other supplies to provide needed
material assistance.
An 18 person Department of Defense medical team that was in Bangladesh prior to the storm is there to help with current
medical needs. Working with the Government of Bangladesh, we are assessing critical needs to determine where our
assistance can be most effective.
The United States is committed to helping the people of Bangladesh and their government as they face the many challenges
of rebuilding and recovering.
ENDS