Fiji: Cyclone Ami assistance pours in
Minster for Regional Development, Ilaitia Tuisese told Cabinet that the immediate contributions made by the New Zealand and Australian governments in conducting aerial assessments in the affected areas from January 15 to January 20, was significant.
The two countries also made cash contributions during the Prime Minister's appeal late last week.
Mr. Tuisese said the both governments have assured that they will be providing further assistance to Fiji once full details are available.
Other foreign nations and agencies providing assistance include the United Kingdom, France, Japan and UNOCHA (United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs).
The United Kingdom is providing a financial grant through the Red Cross Society.
France has pledged the provision and airlifting of relief supplies and provision of funds for urgent purchase of relief supplies.
The UNOCHA has launched its own international appeal through the Geneva Head Quarters and is providing US$30,000 financial grant to aid emergency relief efforts.
Japan has also indicated interest to assist.
Prime Minister Laisenia Qarase said the Minister for Foreign Affairs and External Trade, Kaliopate Tavola, has been authorised to liaise with the foreign donors with regard to Cyclone Ami relief assistance.