EU Bushfires Message
- February 17th, 2009
- Posted by EUEditor
The European Commission President, José Manuel Barroso, has extended condolences to the Australian people over the bushfires tragedy in Victoria and the Northern floods this month.
Mr Barosso wrote to the Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd:
“I am deeply saddened and shocked by the loss of life and terrible devastation to property in Victoria caused by the bushfires that Australia has been experiencing, as well as with the floods in Queensland, presenting further suffering and difficulties with loss of life and destruction and devastation to property and livestock.
“On behalf of the European Commission, I would like to extend my sincerest condolences to you and to the people of Australia.
“Our sympathy and solidarity are with the families of the victims.
“Please accept, dear Prime Minister, the assurance of my highest consideration.â€
In a telephone conversation on 9.2.09, as the full impact of the first terrible Saturday of fires became known, President Barosso telephoned the Prime Minister to offer assistance — to complement help being offered by member state governmment in Europe.