The Australian government doubled the relief funds for China to USD1.9 million. In addition, it will “provide, at the request of Chinese authorities, further basic emergency relief supplies such as generators, blankets, tarpaulins, jerry cans and water tanks to assist survivors,” according to Foreign Minister Stephen Smith. “On behalf of the Australian government and the Australian people, I would like to extend our deepest condolences to China, and in particular to the families and friends of the victims of this terrible tragedy,” Smith added. Canberra earlier proposed to send a search and rescue mission but Beijing declined the offer, saying that transport and communications problems would make it difficult to bring the team to the affected regions.
Source: Australia Doubles Earthquake Relief Aid To China (AFP)
