Crowley for more US aid to flood-hit Bangladesh

US Congressman Joseph Crowley has urged the US government to aid Bangladesh in its flood recovery and to be a leader in encouraging other nations to donate generously to Bangladesh.
"The United States is the world's leading humanitarian nation, yet, to date, USAID has only provided approximately US$135,000 through its partner agency CARE for the local purchase of survival pack rations," he said in a letter sent to US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on August 13.
"By comparison, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has provided US$50 million of aid to assist Bangladesh -- airlifting medical relief, and basic food and water requirements", said Crowley, also co-chair of Bangladesh Congressional Caucus.
"As a strong leader in the world, the United States must be at the forefront of providing emergency humanitarian aid to the affected nations," he said.
A copy of the letter was sent to USAID's acting administrator Henrietta Holman Fore.
"The devastation of the recent floods in Bangladesh demand immediate action and humanitarian relief," he said adding that over 20 million people have been displaced by the severe flooding and over US$ 1 billion worth of damages has been inflicted on the country's infrastructure, agriculture and garment industries.