28 June 2011

Christchurch Earthquake Appeal thanks Sultanate of Oman

Mark Weldon, of the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal, has thanked the Government of the Sultanate of Oman for its generous donation of US $1 million (NZ $1.23m) to the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal.

In a note to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Embassy wrote: “The Government of the Sultanate of Oman has decided to donate one million US Dollars to New Zealand’s Christchurch Earthquake Appeal, as a contribution to the efforts in overcoming the challenges posed by the tragic earthquake that struck Christchurch earlier this year, and as a token of Oman’s solidarity with New Zealand in this tragedy and in particular with the families that lost their beloved ones.”

Mr Weldon said New Zealand Prime Minister John Key, who launched the Christchurch Earthquake Appeal, had expressed his gratitude for the Government of Oman's donation. Mr Weldon said Mr Key will be writing to express his thanks on behalf of the Appeal.

“The Appeal would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the Government of the Sultanate of Oman for this generous donation,” Mr Weldon said.

“The tragic earthquakes in Christchurch have prompted people from all over the world to ask how they can help. Support from our international family, such as the Sultanate of Oman, will make a genuine difference to helping the people and communities of Christchurch get back on their feet.

“There are about 150 Omani students studying in New Zealand universities, and 14 of these are in Christchurch – both at Otago Medical School and Canterbury. They will know firsthand what Christchurch is going through.”

“The Appeal has raised over $80 million to help restore Christchurch and its communities. One hundred cents in every dollar we receive will go to that purpose.”