Organization of American States

Press Release

E-115/99ie
December 17, 1999

 

SECRETARY GENERAL OF OAS SENDS MESSAGE OF
SOLIDARITY IN THE WAKE OF VENEZUELA FLOODS

 

Secretary General César Gaviria of the Organization of American States (OAS) yesterday sent Venezuelan President Hugo Chávez a message conveying his condolences and support on behalf of the inter-American community of nations over the difficulties that country has been experiencing in the aftermath of floods and landslides brought on by heavy rains over the last few days.

In his letter, Mr. Gaviria said that given the gravity of the situation, the Organization’s Fund for Emergency Aid (FONDEM) would be mobilizing emergency funds earmarked for cases such as this to help ease the situation facing the people of the South American nation.

The Secretary General, in coordination with the Permanent Mission of Venezuela to the OAS, have contacted Sir George Alleyne, Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), seeking that agency’s urgent humanitarian assistance.

Secretary General Gaviria also expressed sympathy to the families of the victims and to those affected.

 

**********