[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: WILLIAM J. CLINTON (1999, Book II)]
[August 28, 1999]
[Page 1482]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



[[Page 1482]]


Radio Remarks on Earthquake Relief for Turkey
August 28, 1999

    The recent earthquake in Turkey is one of the worst natural 
disasters of the century. Tens of thousands of people are either 
confirmed dead or still missing.
    On behalf of all Americans, Hillary and I offer our deepest 
condolences to the loved ones of those who have lost their lives. Our 
thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragedy.
    Turkey is our longtime ally. The Turkish people are our friends. 
Today they urgently need assistance. Many are severely injured. Hundreds 
of thousands are camping outdoors. There is a serious risk of disease 
spreading. We must help the victims rebuild their lives.
    Working with Turkey's Government and others, American military and 
civilian personnel, including teams from Fairfax County, Virginia, and 
Dade County, Florida, helped with the rescue efforts. Now we're helping 
provide shelter, water, sanitation, and medical services. I'm grateful 
to all those participating.
    Here at home, Americans are helping, too, including religious 
leaders of many faiths, who've united to call for prayer and 
humanitarian action. I encourage my fellow citizens to give generously 
to charitable organizations supporting the relief efforts. For 
information, you can call our toll-free number in the U.S., that's 1-
800-USAID-RELIEF--1-800-USAID-RELIEF--or look on the Internet at 
www.whitehouse.gov.

Note: The President's remarks were recorded at approximately 10:45 a.m. 
at Edgartown Elementary School in Martha's Vineyard, MA, for later 
broadcast. The transcript was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on August 31. These remarks were also made available on the 
White House Press Office Radio Actuality Line.