ID :
86728
Thu, 10/29/2009 - 15:35
Auther :

A'LIAN ENVOY HELPS TO SEND OFF RELIEF AID FOR W SUMATRA

Jakarta, Oct. 29 (ANTARA) - Australian Ambassador to Indonesia Bill Farmer on Thursday helped send off Nahdlatul Ulama`s shipment of Australian-funded relief items for victims of the West Sumatra earthquakes.

Australia provided A$250,000 to Nahdlatul Ulama to support recovery and reconstruction, according to information on the official website of the Australian embassy here on Thursday.

These funds will provide support to thousands of victims. This includes the distribution of relief items such as family and school kits, which were part of today?s shipment. Medical teams, school books and trauma counselling for survivors of the devastating earthquakes will also be provided.

This assistance is part of the A$3.8 million committed by Australia for the West Sumatra emergency response.

"Australia stands ready to support Indonesia in times of need and in the face of tragedy," Farmer said.

"Today is a reflection of Australia`s strong partnership with Indonesia and community organisations like Nahdlatul Ulama, which continue to support those affected by disasters."

Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd last year signed a memorandum of understanding with Nahdlatul Ulama that pledged to work in partnership to achieve a prosperous, democratic and safe Indonesia.

To date, Australia has committed more than $15 million for emergency, recovery and reconstruction to help the people of West Sumatra.

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