SG/SM/7106

SECRETARY-GENERAL CALLS ON GOVERNMENTS AND VOLUNTARY AGENCIES TO REDOUBLE EFFORTS IN RESPONSE TO DEVASTATION CAUSED BY EARTHQUAKE IN TURKEY

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General notes with gratitude the generous assistance provided by Governments, non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and private individuals in response to the devastation caused by the earthquake in Turkey.

We are all aware of the magnitude of the devastation and suffering caused by this tragedy. The needs remain enormous, both for initial relief and rehabilitation. The Secretary- General calls on governments and voluntary agencies to redouble their efforts to help meet these needs in the weeks and months ahead. The United Nations itself is providing all possible assistance and is prepared to offer its services to coordinate the broader international effort.

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United Nations