The United States has agreed with a request from Mexico to not prosecute illegal aliens affected by Hurricane Katrina who ask U.S. officials for help, says President Vicente Fox.
“We have agreed with the government of the United States that those who were not documented at the time will not be subject to any pressure or persecution whatsoever,” Fox said yesterday.
“Mexico estimates that about 40,000 Mexicans were living in Louisiana, the majority in New Orleans, which was devastated by the hurricane.
“”In this way, they can receive help from the American authorities, they can approach the authorities to point out what they’ve lost and, above all, to ask for support.”
“Foreign Secretary Luis Ernesto Derbez said that Mexico would set up temporary consulates near the disaster area to help Mexicans and Central Americans alike affected by the storm. Officials did not have reports of any Mexican deaths, but 87 citizens were reported missing, Derbez said.
“He added that Mexico also was ready to send immediate assistance to the United States, but was just waiting for the go-ahead from officials there. The aid will include Navy ships, food and medicine, amphibious vehicles and health and rescue personnel, the foreign secretary said.
Those wishing to contribute to hurricane relief efforts can donate to the Salvation Army online or by calling 1-800-725-2769. Red Cross donations can be made
online or by calling 1-800-435-7669.
Related stories:
New Orleans mayor fears CIA to take him out
Web, military technology aiding in storm recovery
Sobbing Geraldo: Let the people go!
Clinton, Bush slashed spending on levees
Billy Graham on disaster: Evil is mystery
Radio host: No doubt ‘End Times’ here
North Carolina governor: Stay home for Labor Day
Hurricane hits just before homosexual event
New Orleans death toll possibly in thousands
Bush, ‘global warming’ to blame for hurricane?
Looters turn New Orleans into ‘downtown Baghdad’
Insurers spared financial disaster
