HURRICANE KATRINA: NZ CONDOLENCES, OFFERS OF

UNCLAS WELLINGTON 000668

SIPDIS

STATE FOR EAP/ANP
NSC FOR VICTOR CHA
SECDEF FOR OSD/ISA LIZ PHU
PACOM FOR J2/J233/J5/SJFHQ

E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: PREL PGOV EAID NZ
SUBJECT: HURRICANE KATRINA: NZ CONDOLENCES, OFFERS OF
ASSISTANCE


1. Roy Ferguson, Americas Desk Director at the Ministry of
Foreign Affairs and Trade (MFAT),called post today to convey
GNZ condolences at the loss of life and devastation caused by
Hurricane Katrina. He said GNZ stands ready to help in any
way as needed, noting that in the past NZ firefighters have
for example helped fight US forest fires. He also said the
Prime Minister would be writing to the President to express
condolences.


2. Post has also received numerous phone calls from New
Zealanders expressing concern and offering assistance. We
have directed MFAT and other callers to FEMA's website. We
have also shared with MFAT the Department's guidance about
assisting third country national callers seeking contact with
those in affected areas.


Burnett