US gives $2.1 million in relief aid to Bangladesh

WASHINGTON: The US has provided cyclone-hit Bangladesh with an initial $2.1 million in emergency relief, with President George W Bush and First Lady Laura offering condolence to victims of the disaster which has so far claimed over 2,000 lives.
   
The US government has provided an initial contribution of USD 2.1 million for emergency relief in Bangladesh, whose southwestern coastlines were hit by cyclone 'Sidr', a White House statement said.

Two amphibious assault ships -- the USS Essex and the USS Kearsarge -- were also rushing to Bangladesh to assist in the rescue and relief operations.
   
Also, USAID will airlift 35 tons of non-food items such as plastic sheeting, jerricans, hygiene kits and other supplies to provide needed material assistance, the statement said.
   
An 18-person medical team from the Department of Defense that was in Bangladesh prior to the storm is also helping with current medical needs.
   
"The United States is committed to helping the people of Bangladesh and their government as they face the many challenges of rebuilding and recovering," the statement said.