ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, March 16 2015 – Antigua and Barbuda’s Prime Minister Gaston Browne has sent a message of condolence and support to the President of Vanuatu, Baldwin Lonsdale, following the passage of Tropical Cyclone Pam which damaged or destroyed at least three-quarters of the houses on the islands.
In his letter to President Lonsdale, Prime Minister Browne outlined that the people and Government of Antigua and Barbuda have experienced similar storms in the Caribbean that have devastated the economy and livelihoods. He stated that the recovery period is always lengthy and international assistance is always required for small island-states like ours.
“For these reasons, I have instructed the delegation of Antigua and Barbuda at the United Nations to co-sponsor the resolution – which is sure to emanate there – authorising United Nations agencies to divert resources to Vanuatu, in order to address the massive human tragedy. My delegation will also assist in every way possible to ensure that recovery is forthcoming soonest,” Prime Minister Browne stated in his note.
“May God continue to guide you, Excellency, and may the people of Vanuatu be assured of our prayers and comradeship at this time in particular,” he concluded.
It was reported that Tropical Cyclone Pan, at 300km/h ripped roofs and walls apart. Many families lost their homes, and many businesses are crippled as a consequence of infrastructural damage.
Vanuatu is an archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean with about 82 islands. About 65 islands are inhabited.
