WHO promises to recommend W Sumatra to donor countries

Padang, W Sumatra (ANTARA News) - WHO Director General Dr. Margaret Chan has promised he will help West Sumatra province make a recommendation to the donor countries for assistance in the recovery of the healthcare facilities which had been damaged by the 30 September earthquake.

The statement was made by the WHO director general during a visit to the province Thursday in which he had a dialogue with West Sumatra deputy governor Marlis Rahman, and the regent and major in the quake-hit regions on the planned reconstruction of the healthcare sector.

Margaret suggested the West Sumatra provincial administration and regency and city administrations of the earth-hit areas to establish cooperation with the neighboring countries.

These countries include Australia and Japan which have special programs on health development, and even with the USAID under bilateral agreements.

He said this golden opportunity must be used in the rehabilitation of health infrastructure in West Sumatra.

WHO, however, he said can only assist the province make a good and detailed reconstruction plan to be brought to the donor countries for acceptance. (*)