Today, Congressman Alcee L. Hastings (D-FL) and Congressman Robert B. Aderholt (R-AL) introduced a resolution to express condolences and support for assistance to the victims of the historic flooding in the Western Balkans, which began on May 13, 2014. The record rainfall caused widespread flooding in Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Republic of Croatia, and the Republic of Serbia, leading to landslides, massive destruction, and over 40 deaths. More than half a million people across the region have been impacted, with tens of thousands either displaced or homeless amidst the ongoing state of emergency. (See attached Resolution).
“My thoughts and prayers go out to all those who have been affected by the flooding in the Western Balkans, especially those who have lost loved ones, their homes, and their way of life. These communities will never be quite the same again, and the struggle to rebuild and recover will likely continue for many years to come. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize local authorities, first responders and rescue personnel, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), volunteers, and everyday citizens for their efforts to organize and deliver disaster relief to communities in need all across the region. The people of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Republic of Croatia, and the Republic of Serbia are not alone in this great time of need,” said Hastings.
“I am proud to say that the United States’ response to the natural disaster in the Western Balkans has been swift and substantial. To date, we have provided assistance through the Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance (OFDA) to the Serbian Red Cross, as well as from the Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs and U.S. Embassy in Belgrade. Additionally, the United States Government has provided OFDA assistance to Bosnia and Herzegovina, as well as boats, food, and supplies through the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and Department of Defense. As immediate and long-term needs are identified, I urge my colleagues in Congress to support the provision of essential assistance along with that of other nations and organizations to help our friends in the Western Balkans recover from this tragedy,” further noted Hastings.
“I have visited the Western Balkans on several occasions and I was deeply saddened to learn of the loss of life and the destruction that happened recently due to the floods. My thoughts and prayers, along with those of the people of Alabama and all of the United States, are with the people of the Balkans who are facing this terrible devastation. I appreciate Rep. Hastings for sponsoring this resolution and I look forward to working with our colleagues in Congress to help move this forward,” said Aderholt.
Congressman Alcee L. Hastings serves as Senior Member of the House Rules Committee, Ranking Democratic Member of the U.S. Helsinki Commission, and Co-Chairman of the Florida Delegation.
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