Islamabad: Pakistan has dispatched more than 200 tons of humanitarian aid to Sri Lanka in the wake of Cyclone Ditwah, underscoring what officials described as Islamabad’s enduring solidarity with the crisis-hit island nation.
Pakistan Ships Relief via Sea Route
Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Hussain Andarabi said the shipment departed for Colombo by sea and will support ongoing relief and recovery operations in the worst-affected regions. He noted that the assistance reflects Pakistan’s commitment to helping Sri Lanka navigate one of its most damaging natural disasters in recent years.
High-Level Ceremony Marks Departure
A special ceremony held in Islamabad to mark the departure of the aid consignment was attended by senior Pakistani officials and representatives of Sri Lanka’s top leadership. Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani participated as chief guest, while Sri Lankan High Commissioner Admiral Ravindra C. Wijegunaratne also joined the event.
Officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Disaster Management Authority and other agencies were present, describing the relief effort as a testament to the long-standing friendship between the two nations.
FO Reaffirms Pakistan’s Commitment to Sri Lanka
Speaking at the ceremony, Andarabi said Pakistan has consistently stood by Sri Lankans during moments of hardship and will continue to extend robust humanitarian support in the future. He emphasized that rapid and effective disaster assistance is not only a humanitarian obligation but also essential for strengthening regional cooperation.
“Sri Lanka has been deeply affected by the recent cyclone, and Pakistan’s timely assistance further reinforces the brotherly bond between our peoples,” he said, adding that Pakistan remains ready to cooperate “at every level” as Sri Lanka moves through its recovery phase.
Cooperation Strengthens Regional Ties
Officials noted that the relief initiative highlights a broader vision of mutual support and regional harmony. Pakistan’s latest aid shipment comes as part of a continuing effort to enhance disaster preparedness and reinforce diplomatic ties across South Asia.
The humanitarian consignment is expected to play a significant role in supporting communities displaced or affected by Cyclone Ditwah as Sri Lanka ramps up its rehabilitation efforts.
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