His Excellency
Ferenc Somogyi
Foreign Minister of the Republic of Hungary
Budapest
Dear Mr. Minister,
Thank you for Hungary's expression of sympathy regarding
the devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, one of the most destructive
hurricanes in U.S. history. It is comforting to have such caring people
from across the globe reaching out to us at this tragic time.
I deeply appreciate Hungary's offer to provide
specialized search and rescue teams, medical and forensics experts,
veterinary medication, and blood products. We are working with U.S.
response agencies to try to match the offers with identified needs in
the affected areas. I appreciate your patience as we make the detailed
assessments. I know there are private Hungarian citizens already working
with local voluntary agencies to help the relief effort.
I am grateful for your support and concern.
Sincerely,
Condoleezza Rice
Secretary of State
