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U.S. Consul General William Martin visits displaced flood victims

By U.S. Embassy, Islamabad, Pakistan

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KARACHI (Aug. 17, 2010) – William Martin, U.S. Consul General Karachi, visited the Kemari IDP camp today. Below, please find his remarks:

“My visit here today is to see firsthand the conditions of the people displaced by the unprecedented flooding. These men, women and children here make clear the urgency of Pakistan’s situation. Let me assure you that Americans have been moved by the plight of the Pakistani people and the United States government is responding.

“The United States Government has sent a wide range of assistance to the Pakistani people. The United States Agency for International Development, USAID, is coordinating our relief efforts. American disaster experts are in Pakistan. They will move as quickly as possible to deliver the much needed assistance, while ensuring that it gets to the people who truly need it.

“As you know, the United States has unique capabilities, both civilian and military, and we have made them available to the people of Pakistan. You have all seen the United States military helicopters rescuing Pakistanis by the thousands and delivering urgently needed relief supplies.

Over the past two days, flights carrying relief supplies have landed in Karachi. These materials will provide shelter to more than 115,000 Pakistanis, people whose homes have been swept away by flood waters. We expect another flight to arrive in Karachi today. And be assured, much more American assistance is coming.

“Helping others in their time of need is been a proud part of America’s history. America has responded generously to this crisis from a deep commitment to Pakistan and to a strong belief in our humanitarian values. The United States has committed 76 million dollars to Pakistanis affected by this disaster.

“Since my arrival here in Karachi, I have seen firsthand the strength and resilience of the people of Pakistan. I know they have the capacity to come through this challenge. And as they do, they can look to us, the United States, for support.”