Organization of American States
www.oas.org

 

(E-033/02)

February 21, 2002

SECRETARY GENERAL EXPRESSES SYMPATHY IN WAKE OF BOLIVIA TRAGEDY  

            Secretary General César Gaviria today conveyed to the people and government of Bolivia the deepest sympathies of the Organization of American States, in the aftermath of severe floods that left some 70 people dead and considerable material damage in the city of La Paz. 

            "I am truly saddened by the loss of life this natural disaster has caused," stated Gaviria, "and on behalf of the member states of the OAS, express my heart-felt sympathies to the families that have been directly affected by the forces of nature."  

The Secretary General added: "I have every confidence those affected will respond to adversity with hard work and tenacity, with assistance from the national authorities and the international community as well." 

            The OAS chief said he would remain in touch with the Bolivian authorities to explore possible courses of action to help those affected.

 

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