ABC News: Bush Sends Condolences to Asia, Offers Aid

[Catchawave]

http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/wireStory?id=360856

CRAWFORD, Texas Dec 26, 2004 — President Bush expressed his condolences Sunday to the victims of the massive earthquake and tidal waves that hit southern and southeast Asia. Officials said U.S. relief efforts already were underway.

"The United States stands ready to offer all appropriate assistance to those nations most affected," deputy presidential press secretary Trent Duffy said in a statement.

The statement, issued aboard Air Force One en route to Texas from Washington, said "the president expresses his sincere condolences" over the "terrible loss of life and suffering" caused by the earthquake and tidal waves that hit six countries.