November 6, 2007
No. 154
The Honourable Maxime Bernier, Minister of Foreign Affairs, and the Honourable
Beverley J. Oda, Minister of International Cooperation, today expressed Canada’s
sympathy for those affected by the major flooding in Mexico last week and announced
that Canada will contribute $500,000 to relief, recovery and reconstruction efforts.
“On behalf of all Canadians, I extend my sympathies to all those who have been
affected by the flooding, which has resulted in loss of life and severe hardship,” said
Minister Bernier. “Canada and Mexico share a deep and long-standing friendship. We
continue to stand ready to help our neighbour in this time of crisis. Our response also
speaks to the Government of Canada’s overall commitment to the Americas.”
“Canada will contribute an immediate $100,000 to the International Federation of Red
Cross and Red Crescent Societies, in response to the organization’s appeal, to support
emergency relief and recovery efforts in Tabasco state, where the severity of the floods
exceeds any ever experienced in Mexico,” said Minister Oda. “In addition, we are
channelling $400,000 through our Canada Fund for Local Initiatives to support the
efforts of local partners working to meet identified needs.”
Canadian officials have been in close contact with Mexican authorities and international
aid agencies to determine how Canada may best help. If requested, Canada will make
available its roster of experts in humanitarian aid. Consular officials at the Canadian
Embassy in Mexico are providing assistance to Canadians in the affected areas as
needed.
Canadians in the region can contact Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada in
Ottawa at sos@international.gc.ca, or make a collect call to 613-996-8885.
Canadians interested in providing assistance are encouraged to donate money, not
goods, to experienced humanitarian organizations involved in the response. For more
information on how Canadians can help, please visit
http://geo.international.gc.ca/cip-pic/library/howcanadians-en.aspx.
- 30 -
For further information, media representatives may contact:
Foreign Affairs Media Relations Office
Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada
613-995-1874
http://www.international.gc.ca
Media Relations Office
Canadian International Development Agency
819-953-6534
info@acdi-cida.gc.ca
http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca
