The United States on Tuesday announced the establishment of the Reconstruction and Stabilization Office with the aim of rapidly identifying and marshalling civilian resources for stabilization and reconstruction.

"The Reconstruction and Stabilization Office will monitor evolving developments, coordinate preventative and contingency planning, and, when necessary, mobilize a response," a US State Department statement said.

"The office will work closely with the Defense Department to ensure strong civilian military cooperation in planning and operations, and develop and maintain close links with foreign governments, international and regional organization, and nongovernmental organizations," the statement said.

The statement said that the office was created by US Secretary of State Colin Powell to "lead US government planning to help societies transition from conflict or civil strife to sustainable peace, democracy and market economies."

The office is being headed by Carlos Pascual, who has been coordinator for US assistance to Europe and Eurasia and who has been US ambassador to Ukraine.

Source: Xinhua