With more than 3,700 dead after earthquakes hit Nepal this past weekend, a congressman from Florida is playing an important part in the federal governments response to the tragedy.
U.S. Rep. Ander Crensahw, R-Fla., sits on the U.S. House State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee, but, along with U.S. Rep. Jarred Polis, D-Colo., the Florida congressman also co-chairs the Congressional Nepal Caucus.
On its website, the caucus explains its role in Congress. As the worlds oldest democracy, the United States stands in a unique position to guide Nepal in its efforts to institutionalize and strengthen democracy within its borders, the site reads. The Congressional Nepal Caucus will serve as an informal group of members dedicated to educating the American public and policymakers on U.S. policy objectives toward Nepal including supporting democratic institutions and economic liberalization, promoting peace and stability in South Asia, supporting Nepalese territorial integrity, and alleviating poverty and promoting development.
Crenshaw offered some comments on the federal governments initial response to the earthquake on Saturday afternoon.
"My thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by today's devastating 7.8 magnitude Nepal earthquake, including the families of those who perished in Nepal, India, and Bangladesh, Crenshaw said. I know I join so many in hoping for the safe rescue of those who still remain trapped.
"As co-chairman of the Congressional Nepal Caucus, I am monitoring reports and understand that United States Ambassador to Nepal Peter Bodde has issued a disaster declaration to immediately release an initial $1 million in humanitarian assistance, Crenshaw added. This afternoon, I reached out to the State Department and USAID officials for the very latest information and to learn more about the country's needs and await further details."
Crenshaw is not the only North Florida Republican in the Congressional Nepal Caucus. U.S. Rep. Jeff Miller, R-Fla., is also a member.
Reach Kevin Derby at kderby@sunshinestatenews.com or follow him on Twitter: @KevinDerbySSN
