PRIME Mh
AINISTE
FOR MEDIA 4 OCTOBER 1990
I have today sent the following message to Australians in
Iraq and Kuwait:
At this time of great dif ficulty f or all of you detained
against your will in Kuwait and Iraq, I want you to know
that my symnpathies and those of the Australian Government
and people are constantly with you. I have been
following closely the situation on the ground in Kuwait
and Iraq from the reports of embassy officers in the
region. As you know., Australia has joined the international
community in deploring Iraq's invasion of Kuwait and in
taking concrete measures to reverse its aggression. The
naval commitment we have made to the Multinational Force
is an important part of the United Nations efforts to
respond to the occupation of Kuwait, to secure Iraq's
withdrawal and to ensure that foreign nationals held
against their will are released. It is endorsed by the
overwhelming majority of nations.
I want to assure you that your welfare and that of your
families is very much on my mind and that of my
colleagues in the Government. Our efforts to secure your
freedom and to end the anguish that the current situation
is causing you and your families will continue. The
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade is working
actively and effectively to protect the welfare of all
Australians in the region, and I think you will agree
with me that their efforts to date have been commendable.
As well as our efforts in Iraq and Kuwait, we will be
doing our best to protect your interests and those of
your families in Australia. On your behalf, I will be
publicly calling on financial and other organisations in
Australia to be fair and sympathetic in financial
dealings which affect you. The Government will be happy
to deal with any particular problems brought to our
attention by your families and friends. In particular,
we will consider sympathetically specific requests for
assistance from any of your dependents who are in
situations of particular need.
2.
I do not underestimate the difficulties you face. The
situation in Iraq and Kuwait is obviously tense and may
worsen. But I know that your courage, determination and
good sense will stand you in good stead as you bear up to
these challenges. Australians have always been at their
best with their backs against the wall, and I know that
you too will find ways to endure the current crisis.
Finally, I want to make clear to you personally that no
matter how long this painful business takes, I and my
Ministers have your welfare as a focus of our efforts,
and your safe return to Australia our firmest hope.