The recent earthquake in Turkey is one of the worst natural disasters of the century. Tens of thousands of people are either confirmed dead or still missing.
On behalf of all Americans, Hillary and I offer our deepest condolences to the loved ones of those who have lost their lives. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected by this tragedy.
Turkey is our longtime ally. The Turkish people are our friends. Today they urgently need assistance. Many are severely injured. Hundreds of thousands are camping outdoors. There is a serious risk of disease spreading. We must help the victims rebuild their lives.
Working with Turkey's Government and others, American military and civilian personnel, including teams from Fairfax County, Virginia, and Dade County, Florida, helped with the rescue efforts. Now we're helping provide shelter, water, sanitation, and medical services. I'm grateful to all those participating.
Here at home, Americans are helping, too, including religious leaders of many faiths, who've united to call for prayer and humanitarian action. I encourage my fellow citizens to give generously to charitable organizations supporting the relief efforts. For information, you can call our toll-free number in the U.S., that's 1-800-USAID-RELIEF—1-800-USAID-RELIEF—or look on the Internet at www.whitehouse.gov.
NOTE: The President's remarks were recorded at approximately 10:45 a.m. at Edgartown Elementary School in Martha's Vineyard, MA, for later broadcast. The transcript was released by the Office of the Press Secretary on August 31. These remarks were also made available on the White House Press Office Radio Actuality Line.
William J. Clinton, Radio Remarks on Earthquake Relief for Turkey Online by Gerhard Peters and John T. Woolley, The American Presidency Project https://www.presidency.ucsb.edu/node/225753
