The President of the European Council, Dutch Prime Minister Balkenende, today called President Yudhoyono of Indonesia, Prime Minister Thaksin of Thailand and President Kumaratunga of Sri Lanka to express his sincere condolences with the still increasing number of victims of the natural disaster that has caused inconceivable suffering. Earlier this week Prime Minister Balkenende already sent letters of condolence to all affected countries. Minister Bot of Foreign Affairs is in close contact with his EU colleagues and colleagues in the region.

Prime Minister Balkenende emphasised that his heart and thoughts are with the families affected. He expressed the admiration of the EU for the performances of the rescue teams who are working under extremely difficult conditions and thanked the authorities concerned for the assistance provided to EU citizens.

The Presidency underlined the willingness of the EU and its Member States to assist in every way necessary. So far the EU and its Member States have donated 50 million euros for the relief of immediate needs. Throughout the affected region EU-UN joint coordination structures have been put in place. The EU stands ready to contribute more according to the needs and in close coordination with other actors involved.