Minister sees long term reconstruction role in Haiti

Czech deputy foreign minister Helena Bambusová has suggested the country should take an active part in the long-term renewal of earthquake-hit Haiti. In an interview with the Czech News Agency she said rebuilding the country would be a good opportunity for the Czech Republic to give further aid if that is cleared by the government.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has already pledged 5.0 million crowns as immediate emergency aid. It will be used by a United Nations programme aimed at restoring supplies of drinking water. The government should discuss further aid at its Monday meeting. Estimates put the number of dead caused by the earthquake at the start of this week at up to 200,000 with up to 300,000 homeless.

Author: Chris Johnstone