*Administration of Barack H. Obama, 2009 *

**Statement on the Earthquake and Tsunami in the South Pacific Region **

*September 30, 2009 *

Michelle and I send our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the earthquake and tsunami in American Samoa and the region. I am closely monitoring these tragic events and have declared a major disaster for American Samoa, which will provide the tools necessary for a full, swift, and aggressive response. The Federal Emergency Management Agency is in close and constant contact with emergency responders, and the U.S. Coast Guard is fully supporting the deployment of resources to those areas in need of immediate assistance. We also stand ready to help our friends in Samoa and the region. Going forward, we will continue to provide the resources necessary to respond to this catastrophe, and we will keep those who have lost so much in our thoughts and prayers.

*Categories:* Statements by the President : South Pacific region, earthquake and tsunami.

*Names:* Obama, Michelle.

*Subjects:* Homeland Security, Department of : Emergency Management Agency, Federal; Samoa, American, disaster assistance; Samoa, American, earthquake and tsunami, damage and recovery efforts.

*DCPD Number:* DCPD200900759.