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Earthquake-stricken Christchurch, NZ
Photo: AFP
Netanyahu: Sends fast relief
Photo: Gil Yohanan

PM sends aid despite NZ's initial refusal

Netanyahu says aid on way to earthquake-stricken Christchurch, though need for assistance unclear

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Sunday that aid is on its way to earthquake-stricken Christchurch – despite New Zealand's polite refusal of Israel's initial offer for help.

 

Ynet learned Monday that New Zealand's Foreign Affairs Ministry sent out a list of resources that it needs in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake. Addressed to dozens of nations that offered assistance, the letter asks the governments to indicate what resources or equipment they can provide, stressing that these possibilities will be examined before being finalized – a fact that did not stop Netanyahu from announcing that relief will soon be delivered.

 

"After Netanyahu's post-earthquake conversation with New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, New Zealand's government has asked Israel for aid with sanitation, water purification, and portable facilities," the Prime Minister's Office stated on Saturday. "The prime minister instructed authorities to respond to New Zealand's request as soon as possible."

 

Netanyahu added during a government meeting on Sunday morning that he will speak to New Zealand's government in order to "see what we can send them."

 

Among the resources that the Foreign Affairs Ministry requested are temporary living facilities, 20,000 portable bathrooms, above-ground pipe systems, sanitary equipment, pumping systems and demolition experts.  

 

Good intentions, clumsy results?

Criticism sounded from Jerusalem for Netanyahu's rash actions but a spokesperson for the prime minister assured that Israel promised New Zealand's government to help in any way possible, and intended to deliver on the promise.

 

"In the message that was sent to the Prime Minister's Office over the weekend Israel was requested to aid with sanitation and water purification, and the request will be fulfilled within the next 48 hours, as per the prime minister's instructions," he said.

 

"We do not know what other nations New Zealand asked for assistance, but it is a legitimate and accepted practice," the spokesperon added. "Prime Minister Netanyahu also appealed to many nations for help during the Carmel fire, in order to recruit firefighting planes. Obviously Israel can help, but it cannot solve all of the sanitation problems caused by the earthquake, which is why there is no doubt that other nations will mobilize as well."

 

 


פרסום ראשון: 02.28.11, 09:28
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