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Mexico City, October 27, 2005 — “The recent natural disasters that have devastated parts of the United States and Mexico, strengthened the cooperation and determination of our countries and governments to work together,” said U.S. Ambassador to Mexico Tony Garza. “On behalf of the American people, I am authorizing today an additional $300,000 in disaster relief for Hurricane Wilma victims. This brings the total to $400,000 dollars for Hurricane Wilma relief and $200,000 for Hurricane Stan.”
Ambassador Garza went on to say that officials sent by the U.S. Embassy in Mexico to Quintana Roo to assist almost 15,000 American tourists affected by Hurricane Wilma, were very impressed by the reconstruction and clean-up efforts already underway. “We understand the discomfort that many people experienced while visiting a vacation paradise, but later finding themselves caught up in one of the most powerful hurricanes in history. However, the situation is returning to normal. Once again, we extend our sympathy to the thousands of Mexicans who are suffering from the widespread devastation,” he added.
Ambassador Garza emphasized that the preparations undertaken by Mexican federal, state and local authorities in Quintana Roo, minimized the loss of life. He added that officials from various U.S. agencies, including the Office of Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA), were in the area assisting with a post-disaster evaluation with the Mexican government, in order to determine the possibility of additional assistance from the United States. “From the beginning, collaboration with our Mexican counterparts has been essential in face of this tremendous challenge,” added the Ambassador.
“Our thoughts are with all of those affected by these disasters, but especially with the families of those who lost loved ones and with those who are working to assist victims,” stated Ambassador Garza.
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