E-139/01
June 25, 2001

 

OAS SECRETARY GENERAL EXPRESSES SYMPATHY AT PERU EARTHQUAKE

Port-au-Prince, Haiti - The Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), César Gaviria, speaking from Port-au-Prince, Haiti, today expressed deep condolences in the aftermath of a violent earthquake that rocked Peru last Saturday.

Upon learning of the extensive damage caused by this quake¾ which inflicted a heavy death toll and serious material damage in the regions of Arequipa, Moquegua, and Tacna¾ the Secretary General called on the international community to intensify relief aid for those affected.

"We are very concerned at how heavily the forces of nature have lashed this Andean country," said the OAS chief, who is in Haiti on a working visit. Gaviria sent a message of solidarity to the Peruvian people, on behalf of the nations of the Americas, saying "the Organization will do all in its power to help mobilize relief aid for the Peruvian people."

Mr. Gaviria said he has been in touch with the OAS Permanent Council Chairman to coordinate an immediate contribution through the Inter-American Emergency Aid Fund (FONDEM).

 

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