[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 41, Number 1 (Monday, January 10, 2005)]
[Page 2]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Statement on the Earthquake and Tsunamis in the Indian Ocean

December 31, 2004

    The disaster around the Indian Ocean continues to grow both in size 
and scope. I have been monitoring closely the developments and our 
recovery and relief effort underway. I also look forward to the detailed 
report of the official delegation led by Secretary Powell and Governor 
Jeb Bush that will travel to the region very soon.
    The United States has already provided an initial, substantial 
effort through existing emergency response resources, the formation of 
the core group, and military assets. To help coordinate the massive 
relief effort, disaster response officials are on the ground, and we 
have established a Support Center in Thailand that is manned and 
operational. More than 20 patrol and cargo aircraft have been made 
available to assess the disaster and deliver relief supplies. Many of 
those aircraft are on the scene. We have dispatched the aircraft carrier 
Abraham Lincoln, the maritime prepositioning squadron from Guam, and an 
amphibious ship carrying a Marine Expeditionary Unit. They will soon be 
in position to support relief efforts to include the generation of clean 
water. We are leading an international coalition to help with immediate 
humanitarian relief, rehabilitation, and long-term reconstruction 
efforts. India, Japan, and Australia have pledged to help us coordinate 
these relief efforts, and I am confident many more nations will join 
this core group in short order. Reports of strong charitable donations 
are also very encouraging and reflect the true generosity and compassion 
of the American people.
    Initial findings of American assessment teams on the ground indicate 
that the need for financial and other assistance will steadily increase 
in the days and weeks ahead. Because of this information and based on 
the recommendation of Secretary Powell and Administrator Natsios, I am 
today committing $350 million to fund the U.S. portion of the relief 
effort. Our contributions will continue to be revised as the full 
effects of this terrible tragedy become clearer.
    Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this epic 
disaster.