Tsunami devastation

The size and scope of the tsunami disasters have struck a poignant chord in all of us. We understand that stepping forward now to support the shell-shocked survivors is both a moral obligation and a duty as members of the human race.

The incredible outpouring of support from around the world underscores the global impact of this disaster. Donations have poured in from developed and developing nations alike.

Individual American citizens have pledged over 200 million USD of their own money. I was particularly moved by the generosity of the residents of the southern Russian town of Beslan, who, still in mourning for their own loss of 300 people in the terrorist school siege last November, have donated over $35,000.

The United States Government has pledged $350 million for relief and reconstruction efforts, and U.S. military forces are providing critically needed aid to survivors in the worst affected areas of Sumatra. While, however, governments can lead, it is individuals and ordinary people who make the ultimate difference.

In an unprecedented demonstration of American resolve, former Presidents Bush and Clinton have embarked on a massive campaign to raise relief funds from the American people and the American corporate sector. We will continue to work with the international donor community to coordinate relief efforts and are pleased that so many governments have pledged to work together to rebuild the affected countries.

Private relief organisations were among the first to answer the call for help. The American Red Cross has collected more than $79 million, and a U.S.-based Internet retailer has raised from its customers more than $12 million. Oxfam America received such a large volume of contributions via the Internet, more than $7.5 million, that its website was temporarily disabled. Catholic Relief Services has raised almost $15 million, and Save The Children has added another $14 million.

Bangladeshis, I believe, should be proud that their country, no stranger to natural disasters, has this time assumed the role of donor by sending relief supplies and personnel to Sri Lanka aboard giant C-130 aircraft provided by the U.S. government to support Bangladesh's contribution to peacekeeping and humanitarian relief missions.

I am confident that Sri Lanka will long remember this practical demonstration of concern and good neighborliness. Similarly, the pledge by the Bangladeshi cricket team to donate towards the relief effort needs to be commended.

The world has already pledged $2 billion, but much more needs to be done. As Secretary Powell said this week in Bangkok, as he led a Presidential mission to coordinate U.S. relief activities in the region, the road to recovery is long and hard. We have made a great start. The challenge now is to sustain this level of commitment and compassion until the job is done.

Our thoughts and prayers are with those affected by this disaster.

Harry K. Thomas is U.S. Ambassador to Bangladesh