Mr Carey was quoted as saying, "I hope there'll be many others that surpass it [the $1 million figure] because so much is needed - the country is so important. When we visited India last November we were most impressed with the entrepreneurial spirit of its people and the untapped opportunities to provide long-term financing to Indian businesses. In light of the horrific recent developments in the country however, we have decided to get involved in the relief effort. It is my sincere hope that other philanthropic institutions will also lend support and help ease the suffering of this earthquake's victims."

Mr Carey, an India-lover who believes that India and the US should be close allies, said: "the benefits to the United States I think are enormous in the long-term relationship which we can develop with this great country. We should be the closest of friends."

He handed over the cheque to Mr Kamlesh Sharma, India's ambassador to the UN. The ambassador thanked Mr Carey saying he was an "example of the spirit of engagement to others."

Mr Carey is the Chairman of the foundation that bears his name, the W P Carey Foundation, which he personally funds.

- nriol.com report

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