Fijians in the US Pledge $120k to PM’s Rehab Fund
The Fijian Diaspora in the United States through the Fiji American National Association (FANA) yesterday reaffirmed their commitment to mobilise assistance in support of the Government’s efforts towards rebuilding lives of communities affected by Tropical Cycylone Yasa.
The association has over the past two weeks contributed nearly $120,000 into the Prime Minister’s National Disaster Relief and Rehabilitation Fund to support the national effort of rebuilding and recovery work carried out by Government through the National Disaster Management Office (NDMO).
The association assured support through a virtual meeting held yesterday with the Permanent Secretary, Office of the Prime Minister, Immigration and Sugar Industry and Acting Permanent Secretary Foreign Affairs Yogesh Karan.
Association president Abdul Rauf said the assistance was provided in appreciation of Government’s swift response in reaching out to the families affected by the December 17, 2020 cyclone.
He thanked Mr Karan for the timely discussions that will assist the association to mobilise further support towards Tropical Cyclone Yasa relief efforts.
He said the association was proud to be able to assist Fiji at this great time of need and that such support from the Fijian diaspora will significantly complement the efforts in “Building Back Safer”.
Mr Karan conveyed the Prime Minister’s appreciation for their remarkable assistance.
“Through all of you; let me thank the Fijian diaspora and all those who have contributed to this effort – this has greatly assisted us in increasing the speed and scale of recovery effort underway,” Mr Karan said.
“The whole of the Government machinery is fully mobilised now.
“We have the agriculture, fisheries, and other ministries coordinated via the NDMO.
“Through this approach, we are ensuring that support is targeted; support is prioritised; and support is multidimensional.
“All these families will find great comfort and solace in your effort.
“Besides the funds you have contributed; they all know that Fijians in the USA and in Canada stand with them at this difficult time. This is reassuring to them. This is uplifting. This is helping them to recover and heal.”
Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Satyendra Prasad said: “The enthusiasm with which the Fijian diaspora in USA have responded has been truly uplifting.
“They have helped to boost the confidence of Fijian families.
“Fijian families feel proud that those who live abroad have them in their hearts and thoughts during this difficult period”.
Fiji’s Honorary Consul in San Francisco Jay Singh and Fiji’s Trade Commissioner in San Francisco Praneet Singh and the association members had collectively reaffirmed their continued support in mobilising further assistance to Fiji.