Dick Lugar: “the tidal waves, tsunamis, that traversed the Indian Ocean and the Western Pacific on December 26 have caused death and…”

“the tidal waves, tsunamis, that traversed the Indian Ocean and the Western Pacific on December 26 have caused death and destruction in at least 12 countries, particularly India, Indonesia, Sri Lanka and Thailand. The tsunami disaster constitutes a humanitarian tragedy of incredible proportions. Currently, experts estimate that more than 150,000 people have perished and countless people are injured. Millions are homeless and at risk from disease. These tragic numbers are expected to rise as we obtain additional information. The United States is a compassionate country that will respond generously to this human catastrophe. Under the leadership of President Bush, the agencies and resources of the U.S. Government have been mobilized to assist in the initial humanitarian effort. In addition, innumerable individual Americans and U.S. businesses have donated millions of dollars directly to international relief efforts. As the world leader in international disaster assistance, the United States must work closely with the international community to implement the most effective response possible in the coming weeks and months. Beyond the compelling humanitarian reasons for swift action, a stable and prosperous Asia is essential to the global effort on a range of shared problems, including weapons proliferation, terrorism, narcotics, and contagious diseases.”