Earthquake and Tidal Waves in the Bay of Bengal

On behalf of the American people, the President expresses his sincere condolences for the terrible loss of life and suffering caused by the earthquake and subsequent tsunamis in the region of the Bay of Bengal.

The United States stands ready to offer all appropriate assistance to those nations most affected including Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Thailand, and Indonesia, as well as the other countries impacted. Already relief is flowing to Sri Lanka and the Maldives. We will work with the affected governments, the United Nations, non-governmental organizations, and other concerned states and organizations to support the relief and response to this terrible tragedy.

Again, we extend our sincere condolences to all the people of the region at this time of suffering.

"The Christmas holiday has been saddened by the news that comes from Southeast Asia about the powerful earthquake which struck Indonesia, with consequences in other countries, including Sri Lanka, India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia and the Maldives."

"We hope that the international community acts to bring relief to the stricken populations," the pontiff said.

European leaders also expressed sympathy and sent aid:

European Union
European Union Humanitarian Aid Commissioner Luis Michel said it was important to deliver aid "in those vital hours and days immediately after the disaster." The 25-nation EU will deliver $4 million in emergency aid as a start.

Great Britain
British consular officials were called from vacation and aid efforts were being organized.

France
French President Jacques Chirac sent a letter expressing his sympathy and the solidarity of France to the president of Sri Lanka.

Austria
Relief officials and charities such as Caritas and Volkshilfe issued a broad and urgent appeal for cash donations.

Greece
The Greek foreign ministry said a C-130 cargo plane was ready to offer assistance.

Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent his condolences to leaders of India, Indonesia, Thailand and Sri Lanka.

Germany
German President Horst Koehler sent his condolences to the leaders of the stricken countries and Foreign Minister Joschka Fischer said Germany was ready to offer aid.

According to the American Red Cross, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent societies in south Asia have begun to mobilize staff and volunteers to affected areas to assist with the immediate needs. Emergency assessment and first-aid teams have already reached some of the affected areas.

From California Yankee.