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 You are in: Under Secretary for Public Diplomacy and Public Affairs > Bureau of Public Affairs > Bureau of Public Affairs: Press Relations Office > Press Releases (Other) > 2002 > October
Fact Sheet
Office of the Spokesman
Washington, DC
October 24, 2002


Medicines, Medical Equipment Sent to Uzbekistan

In a ceremony that took place at Andrews Air Force base this morning, Deputy Secretary of State Richard L. Armitage and representatives from Physicians with Heart, including Dr. Gary Morsch, President and Founder of Heart to Heart International sent off a special humanitarian assistance flight to Uzbekistan. The ceremony also marked the tenth anniversary of this unique public – private partnership to deliver high-value medicines and pharmaceuticals to the most needy populations of the newly established countries of the former Soviet Union.

The flight, utilizing a U.S. Air Force C-5 cargo aircraft, is carrying an estimated ten million dollars worth of medicines, pharmaceuticals, and medical supplies. The traveling delegation of more than 40 medical professionals, business leaders, and other volunteers will distribute the medicines and supplies throughout Uzbekistan. Major American pharmaceutical manufacturers have donated the various medical supplies.

The Coordinator for Assistance to Europe and Eurasia oversees all assistance programs in the Former Soviet Union and in Eastern and Southeastern Europe. Deputy Secretary Armitage established the forerunner of this office in 1992 when he served in the Department under former Secretary of State James Baker.

Since September 11, 2001, Heart to Heart International in conjunction with the Department of State has donated approximately $30 million in medicines and pharmaceuticals throughout Uzbekistan.

Over the last ten years, Heart to Heart International has delivered nearly $300 million in aid to people in need around the world. Since 1993, Physicians with Heart has completed ten major humanitarian efforts in the New Independent States of the former Soviet Union and in Vietnam, delivering pharmaceuticals and supplies valued at more than $60 million.



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