The Republic of China (Taiwan) government pledged Aug. 30 to donate US$800,000 toward relief efforts assisting those affected by former Hurricane Harvey in the U.S.
Making landfall Aug. 25 in southeast Texas and again Aug. 30 near the Texas-Louisiana border, Harvey brought record rains and triggered massive flooding in Houston and towns east of the city. The damage and economic impact from the hurricane, which was downgraded Aug. 30 to a tropical storm by the U.S. National Weather Service, is substantial.
According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the donation is an expression of heartfelt sympathy on behalf of the people of Taiwan, who endure typhoons every summer and fall.
Taiwan and the U.S. enjoy friendly relations, with the people of the two countries sharing a deep and profound bond, the MOFA said, adding that it is hoped the donation will assist those facing extreme hardship caused by Harvey get back on their feet as soon as possible.
The donation is expected to be made during a public ceremony after consultations with Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the U.S. and its office in Houston, as well as relevant U.S. government agencies.
President Tsai Ing-wen also expressed her concern for those affected by Harvey. In a late-night tweet Aug. 28 on her official Twitter account, she said the thoughts of the people of Taiwan are with Houston as it weathers an unprecedented crisis. (SFC-E)
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