Statement by Ambassador Hjįlmar W. Hannesson
Statement by Ambassador Hjįlmar W. Hannesson, 9 May 2008, at the launch of the appeal for Myanmar
Thank you Mr. Under Secretary General for this flash appeal.
I would like to join my colleagues in expressing our deepest condolences to the victims of the devastating Cyclone "Nargis" that struck Myanmar. Iceland would like to commend the rapid action taken by the UN humanitarian agencies, of which you spoke at the beginning of this meeting, and also by the many NGOs. We also commend the actions of all contributing nations. We echo your appeal for a rapid resolution of all matters in the way of the most speedy and effective relief possible. Time is off the essence, as so many have said today.
The Icelandic Government has decided to contribute one hundred thousand US dollars for immediate humanitarian work. The Icelandic Red Cross has already donated five million Icelandic Krona.
The Icelandic people as a whole have also shown solidarity with the victims of the Cyclone and donations are being collected as we speak.
As a country we are well aware of the impact of natural disasters and Iceland will continue to follow developments and will seek to contribute further where it can.
I thank you Mr. Under Secretary General
