Statement by the President on the Earthquake in New Zealand
The White House
Office of the Press Secretary
For
Immediate Release
February 22, 2011
Statement by the President on the Earthquake in New
Zealand
On behalf of the American people,
Michelle and I extend our deepest condolences to the people
of New Zealand and to the families and friends of the
victims in Christchurch, which has suffered its second major
earthquake in just six months. Our thoughts and prayers are
with all those whose lives have been touched by this
tragedy, especially as they search for their loved ones and
work to recover from this disaster. The United States is a
close friend and partner of New Zealand, as evidenced by the
meeting of the U.S.-New Zealand Partnership Forum that was
underway in Christchurch when the earthquake struck. To
assist in the rescue and recovery efforts, we have agreed to
deploy a U.S. Agency for International Development Disaster
Assistance Response Team, including an Urban Search and
Rescue Team, and we stand ready to provide more assistance
as needed. As our New Zealand friends move forward, may
they find some comfort and strength in knowing that they
will have the enduring friendship and support of many
partners around the world, including the United
States.
ENDS