US to increase tsunami aid to 350 million dollars

CRAWFORD, Texas, Dec 31 (AFP) - The United States is to increase its aid for victims of Asia's tsunami disaster to 350 million dollars, President George W. Bush announced Friday.
The US leader said in a statement that because the needs of stricken populations would increase in the weeks ahead, "I am today committing 350 million dollars to fund the US portion of the relief effort.
"Our contributions will continue to be revised as the full effects of this terrible tragedy become clearer."
Deputy White House spokesman Trent Duffy said the 350 million dollars includes 35 million dollars already announced by the US government.
He said the extra money would come from different parts of the federal budget but would not affect money to be used for the rebuilding of Iraq.

12/31/2004 18:26 GMT - AFP