Bush chairs meeting on relief efforts in Pakistan

16 Oct, 2005

President George W. Bush presided over a meeting on disaster relief efforts to help people that have been affected by disasters in Pakistan and Guatemala following his visit to the Pakistani embassy on Friday, White House Press Secretary Scott McClellan said.
After signing the book of condolences at the embassy, the President assured the Pakistani ambassador, Jahangir Karamat, of US support.
"We're helping with humanitarian aid. So, not only will we offer our prayers, but we'll offer our help, and help the people and help the government, help this great nation get back on its feet," Bush said.
McClellan told a news briefing: "We have joint civilian/military disaster assistance efforts that continue in both those countries. The President is grateful for all the assistance our military is providing, and the life-sustaining support being provided by our USAID teams in both those countries.
He said the administration is co-ordinating closely with the governments of Pakistan and Guatemala on relief efforts.
"We have disaster assistance response teams in both countries. Food and other life-sustaining supplies are being provided to those who are in need. We're getting them emergency supplies like blankets and health kits, shelter like tents, and water, as well.
"We are coordinating very closely with the government of Pakistan and Guatemala. As you are well aware, there are a lot of military assets that are being deployed to help with that, too, in terms of helicopters and other assistance," he said.

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