President Bush addressed the issue of aid to Asian nations devestated by the recent tsunamis and indicated that the $35 million pledged so far was just the beginning of U.S. aid.

'These past few days have brought loss and grief to the world that is beyond our comprehension,' Mr Bush said.

'The United States will continue to stand with the affected governments as they care for the victims. We will stand with them as they start to rebuild their communities and together the world will cope with their loss. We will prevail over this destruction.'

Despite the kind words, the president did not announce any new programs to help the nations suffering the loss of nearly 70,000 people. The death toll is still expected to rise as new bodies are discovered. In addition, millions are homeless and disease is expected to hit these areas due to unclean food, water and an overall lack of sanitation.

Bush also said that the UN official who had called developed nations 'stingy' in their aid was 'misguided and ill-informed.' He promised more aid in the future. 'There will be an assessment of the damage so that the next tranche of the relief will be spent wisely. ... our Government is fully prepared to continue to provide assistance and help.'