United Nations Radio

The physical destruction caused by the earthquake and tsunamis is hampering the delivery of urgently needed aid to survivors.

But with more than 120-thousand people killed and an estimated five million in need of food, shelter or health care, the United Nations has launched an unprecedented relief operation.

"This is an unprecedented, global catastrophe and it requires an unprecedented, global response."

Secretary-General Kofi Annan also called on world nations to make a long-term commitment to rebuilding the lives and communities shattered by the South Asian tsunami disaster.

"We must also remain committed for the longer term. We know that the impact will be felt for a long time top come."

The Secretary-General said the United Nations would take the lead in coordinating international response to the catastrophe.