Australia stands ready to assist
AUSTRALIA stands with the Fijian Government and the people of Fiji as they respond to the devastating impacts of Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasa — one of the strongest cyclones ever recorded in the Pacific.
This was the reassurance given by Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Marise Payne.
“Our thoughts and condolences are with our Fijian vuvale following the loss of lives, damage to property and livelihoods,” she said.
“The Australian government will assist the Government of Fiji in whatever capacity we can.”
Ms Payne said a Royal Australian Air Force aircraft (P-8 Poseidon) would be deployed to assist with aerial surveillance of storm affected areas.
“The humanitarian and emergency relief supplies in Fiji that Australia replenished in the aftermath of Tropical Cyclone Harold in April are helping to meet immediate needs.
“We stand ready to deliver additional emergency supplies such as tents, tarpaulins and hygiene kits, and to support the distribution of supplies to remote outer islands which are reported to have been severely hit by the Category 5 storm.”
The first Royal Australian Air Force aircraft carrying relief supplies to Fiji arrived in Nadi yesterday afternoon and also conducted aerial surveillance of the affected areas.
Australia’s Acting High Commissioner to Fiji Anna Dorney and her humanitarian aid support team were at the airport to receive the supplies.