Heads of diplomatic missions yesterday reiterated their support to Government during the launch of the joint Fiji Government/United Nations flash appeal.

All shared our grief of the Fijian people after the devastation left behind by Severe Tropical Cyclone Winston.

They also applauded the leadership of the Minister for Natural Disaster Management Inia Seruiratu and the National Disaster and Management Office.

Here are what some of those present at the launch said:

Mark Ramsden , New Zealand High Commissioner

The Kiwis are glad to be working with the Fijian Government. Moreso , the partnership with their defence forces engineering units.

It is a real joy to us to be working together again and to be able to contribute though we’re terribly sorry about the circumstances.”

Takuji Hanatani, Japanese Ambassador

The Japanese Government had already provided emergency relief assistance of US$170,000 (F$360,476.50).

They have already extended a ground aid of $5.6million.

“The Japanese are also keen to share lessons learnt from their own natural disasters.”

Margaret Twomey, Australian High Commissioner

The Australian High Commission has confirmed that their Foreign Minister Julie Bishop plans to visit Fiji shortly.

Ms Twomey said they are working with the various ministries through the NDMO, Australia is keen to focus on the rebuilding of the education and health sector.

Areas which have been the traditional focus of the Australian government.

Andrew Jacobs, European Union Head of Delegation

On Monday the EU announced an initial FJ$10million through the Secretariat of the Pacific Community (SPC) to complement the Fijian Government’s efforts in relief, recovery and rehabilitation.

We will provide additional budget support and we are committed to strengthening our support.”

Judith Cefkin, US Ambassador to Fiji

Ms Cefkin said the US Government is committed to Fiji in the long haul.

The United States will provide US$500,000 (F$ 1,060,225.00) to sustain displaced families with water, sanitation and hygiene assistance, as well as another US$200,000 (F$424,090) to support humanitarian coordination. These efforts add to the US$100,000 (F$212,045) provided by the US Agency for International Development (USAID) on February 24.

Roderick Drummond, British High Commissioner

The Queen and the Prince of Wales have sent their condolences after the disaster of Cyclone Winston.

Mr Drummond said the UK is one of the strongest supporters of the UN system to respond quickly to such disasters.

“We will look carefully at what more we can do in the next phase.

“I salute the co-ordinator of United Nations Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs in getting things very quickly from the international side so far we have provided  support directly to UNICEF for children.”

Yu Minimbi, PNG Acting High Commissioner

Our Pacific neighbour have pledged K$5.5m to the people of Fiji.

Patteson J. Oti, Solomon Islands High Commissioner

Next Wednesday the Solomon Islands Prime Minister Manasseh Sogovare will be in Fiji to deliver SOL$5m toward Fiji’s relief efforts.

Feedback: rosi.doviverata@fijisun.com.fj