So far, relief funds raised for Pakistan following this summer’s devastating floods are only a fraction of the amount of money donated by Americans for other catastrophes, including the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. In a commentary in today’s Houston Chronicle, James A. Baker, III, former secretary of state and honorary chair of the Baker Institute, urges Americans to extend a helping hand, noting that a strong response from the U.S. public could improve our relationship with Pakistan. He says it could also decrease the likelihood of flood-ridden areas becoming recruiting grounds for religious extremists, eager to exploit victims who are resentful about the lack of aid.
Read Mr. Baker’s Sept. 3, 2010, op-ed “Flood-Ravaged Pakistan could use a helping hand” (PDF).