SECRETARY-GENERAL EXPRESSES SYMPATHY TO PEOPLE OF PAPUA NEW GUINEA

Press Release
SG/SM/6644

SECRETARY-GENERAL EXPRESSES SYMPATHY TO PEOPLE OF PAPUA NEW GUINEA

This is the text of a statement today by the Spokesman for Secretary- General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General wishes to express his deepest sympathy for the people of Papua New Guinea as they struggle to cope with the tragedy that has befallen them. He was profoundly distressed to learn of the terrible damage wrought by last week's tidal wave, and especially by the tragic loss of so many lives, including those of hundreds, if not thousands, of children.

He hopes the international community will give generous and timely assistance to the Government and people of Papua New Guinea in their hour of need. The United Nations stands ready to help in assessing the damage, and in mobilizing the necessary international relief effort.

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