United States now receiving help from around the world

Yahoo News

WASHINGTON-in a dramatic turnaround, the United States is now on the receiving end of help from around the world as two dozen countries offer post hurricane assistance.

Venezuela's Citgo petroleum Corp. pledged $1 million in donations for hurricane aid.

The United Nations informed US ambassador John R. Bolton he was prepared to support the relief effort "in any way possible."

Israeli Prime Minister Ariel Sharon sent a letter to President Bush offering hundreds of doctors, nurses, technicians and other experts in,trauma, natural disasters and public health.

however, FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency) had rejected a Russian offer to dispatch rescue teams and other aid.

Offers have been received from Russia, Japan, Canada, France, Honduras, Germany, Venezuela, Jamaica, Australia, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Greece, Hungary, Columbia, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Mexico, China, South Korea, Israel, the United Arab Emirates and NATO.

Bush told ABC-TV: "I'm not expecting much from foreign nations because we haven't asked for it. I do expect a lot of sympathy and perhaps some will send cash dollars. But this country is going to rise up and take care of it."

"You know," he said, "we would love help, but we're going to take care of our own business as well..."
I think this is wonderful that other countries are offering their help without being asked, for as much as we have helped other countries in their time in need, it is great to see that they are willing to return the favor.

Mr. Bush, there is no shame in receiving help especially when we are one of the first to offer help to another nation when they are hit with disaster.