The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has marked the 20th anniversary of the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami, which struck on December 26, 2004. Triggered by a 9.1 magnitude earthquake, the disaster claimed about 240,000 lives across 14 countries.
USAID Spokesperson Benjamin Suarato issued a statement honoring the victims, praising the heroes who responded, and highlighting the global efforts that followed.
In Indonesia, the hardest-hit nation, over 160,000 people lost their lives. At the time, there were no early warning systems to alert civilians about the incoming waves, leaving many unable to seek safety. Since then, USAID and its partners have worked to improve disaster response systems, ensuring that nearly half of the world is now covered by tsunami and weather warning systems.
The U.S. government provided more than $400 million in aid to Indonesia, helping almost 600,000 people. This support also led to stronger disaster management partnerships with Indonesia, which is now a leader in regional disaster response.
The tsunami also strengthened international cooperation, with the U.S. working closely with nations like Australia, Japan, and India to improve disaster relief and resilience in the Indo-Pacific.
As the world remembers the lives lost in this tragedy, USAID emphasized the importance of continued efforts to prepare for and reduce the impact of future disasters. The agency expressed gratitude to all partners and donors for their ongoing commitment to saving lives and building safer communities.
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