Pope urges international aid for victims of cyclone in Bangladesh

Published: 2007-11-19

VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Benedict XVI urged international assistance for Bangladesh, where thousands were killed in one of the worst cyclones in the country's history. "In recent days a tremendous cyclone struck southern Bangladesh, causing numerous victims and serious destruction," the pope told pilgrims at his Sunday blessing at the Vatican Nov. 18. The pope expressed his condolences to the families of the dead and said he hoped the international community, which moved quickly to aid the survivors, would continue to provide relief. "I encourage every possible effort to help these brothers and sisters who have been so sorely tried," he said. Officials estimated that at least 3,000 people died when the cyclone tore through coastal areas of Bangladesh Nov. 15 with winds estimated at 150 mph. Relief agencies said the final death toll could reach 10,000.

Copyright (c) 2007 Catholic News Service /U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. The CNS news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed, including but not limited to such means as framing or any other digital copying or distribution method, in whole or in part without the prior written authority of Catholic News Service .