Indonesia: Annan Mourns Those Who Died In Sinking

Indonesia: Annan Mourns Those Who Died In Ferry Sinking, Pledges UN Support

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today mourned the hundreds of people who died when a ferry traveling between Borneo and Java islands in Indonesia sank, and pledged the world body's support in response.

"The United Nations stands ready to assist Indonesia in disaster risk reduction and reiterates its willingness to aid the Government in its response to disasters," a spokesman for Mr. Annan said in a statement.

Noting the frequent reports of devastating passenger boat disasters in Indonesia, the Secretary-General called on the authorities to review the safety of "this important means of transportation."

Through the spokesman, he extended condolences to those affected and commended "the valiant rescue attempts by Indonesian authorities, who are working under extremely challenging circumstances."

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