The European Commission said the latest decision will benefit about 2.5 million vulnerable people in Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, the Maldives and Thailand over an 18 month period.

European Commissioner for Development and Humanitarian Affairs Louis Michel said the EU will continue to help the affected populations long after the TV cameras have gone.

He also said it is essential to ensure that quality humanitarian aid is swiftly followed up with appropriate rehabilitation and development support.

The EU fund allocation will bring total funds committed by the bloc to 103 million euros, or about US$134 million. 

(CRIENGLISH.com  February 1, 2005)