(2017-05-30) Sri Lanka has recently experienced most severe floods since 2003 in 14 districts causing loss of 180 precious lives with 110 missing and more than 547,000 persons displaced.
Sri Lankan Government has called for relief and rescue assistance. In view of the heavy losses to human lives and properties, the Prime Minister of Pakistan directed Pakistan Naval Ship ZULFIQAR to immediately reach Colombo with relief assistance and assist in rescue mission.
PNS Zulfiqar arrived at Colombo port in the afternoon of 30 May 2017.
Acting High Commissioner of Pakistan, Dr. Sarfraz Ahmed Khan Sipra handed over the relief goods to the Minister for Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka , Hon. Ravi Karunanayake at Colombo Port.
The Foreign Minister expressed his gratitude to the Prime Minister of Pakistan for providing timely and valued assistance. The Minister emphasized that Pakistan and Sri Lanka enjoy excellent relations. It has been a tradition that both nations come to assist each other in times of adversity. The Acting High Commissioner reaffirmed Pakistan’s continued support to Sri Lanka.
Pakistan Naval Ship ZULFIQUAR has brought in dry rations, medicines, de-flooding pumps and other relief items. Additionally, the Ship has the capability to assist in search and rescue facilities through its helicopter, rescue boats, medical team and expert divers.
Islamabad
30 May 2017
