[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 16 (Tuesday, February 6, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E111]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 EXPRESSING SYMPATHY FOR VICTIMS OF EARTHQUAKE IN INDIA ON JANUARY 26, 
               2001, AND SUPPORT FOR ONGOING AID EFFORTS

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                               speech of

                         HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 31, 2001

  Mr. HASTINGS of Florida. Mr. Speaker, it saddens me greatly to have 
to introduce this resolution along with my colleagues, our effort to 
support the victims of the catastrophic earthquake that struck India on 
January 26, 2001, on the very day the people of India were to celebrate 
the adoption of their first constitution as an independent people.
  On January 26, the people of Gujarat in western India were hit with 
an earthquake the size and devastation of that which hit San Francisco 
in 1906 killing more than 30,000.
  As a fellow democracy we must provide the people of India immediate 
relief, economic assistance and the reconstruction efforts needed to 
rebuild the lives and the state of Gujarat.
  I have had the pleasure of visiting India on a number of occasions 
and have established a candid and sincere relationship with the Indian 
community, both in my congressional district in Florida and abroad.
  Several governments have taken action and are providing assistance to 
the people of India in determining what needs are to be met during this 
critical time of despair. Notably, the government and people of 
Pakistan have been quick to send aid and much needed supplies. I am 
hopeful that their friendship will continue far beyond this difficult 
period. Moreover, I believe it is America's duty to lend a helping hand 
to our great neighbors.
  India and its people need us and it is our duty to expedite immediate 
assistance in reconstructing their lives and concretely showing our 
continued friendship and support.

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