By KUNA,
Washington : U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton late Monday offered prayers and condolences for the victims of Australias massive flooding.
“On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I offer my condolences for the loss of life and damage in Queensland caused by the recent flooding,” Clinton said in a statement released by the State Department.
Officials say Australia’s worst flooding in a decade has claimed three lives since Saturday as rivers continue to overflow despite the end of torrential rains.
Prime Minister Julia Gillard said damages are expected to reach hundreds of millions of dollars. State authorities say about 200,000 have been affected by the floods.
The U.S. embassy in Canberra is monitoring the situation and has been in contact with Australian authorities, Clinton noted.
“Australia is an important partner and close friend of the United States and we stand ready to provide assistance. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by these floods, especially the families of the victims, and with all the people of Australia,” she said.