Clinton says Maldives is a Model of Good Planning

*Former US President Clinton says Maldives is a Model of Good Planning and Accountability*

Male’, February 21, 2005 (Monday) - Former US President Bill Clinton today praised the preparations being made by the Maldives to mobilise assistance for reconstruction after the tsunami. He made the statement in a joint press conference with former US President George Bush and President Gayoom of the Maldives, during a one-day visit to the Maldives.

President Clinton said that he intended to use the Maldives as an example of good planning and accountability in drawing greater assistance to tsunami-affected countries.

He noted that the information in the planning document compiled by the Maldives’ Government had clearly identified where assistance was required and how it was going to be used. He further said that he was confident that with such a document he would be able to raise the assistance required for the Maldives. He also complimented the President on setting up a Board of Overseers to make sure that all the contracts were awarded according to international standards.

At a joint press conference, former President Bush praised the National Disaster Management Centre, and noted the dedication with which the Centre was overseeing the recovery efforts. Speaking on tourism, he noted that 70% of the resorts in the Maldives were ready to receive tourists, and that the natural beauty of the country was something no holidaymaker should miss.

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