Assistance to Pakistan earthquake victims : envoy thanks government

Pakistani High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Bashir Wali Mohmad thanked the Government and people of Sri Lanka for their assistance to Pakistan earthquake victims.

Pakistan's envoy at a meeting with the Prime Minister briefed him about the latest situation of the area and relief operation to alleviate the sufferings of people.

Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapakse had personally contacted the High Commissioner immediately after the earthquake hit Pakistan. Sri Lanka donated around 7500 small and large tents. AC-130 aero plane of the Sri Lankan Air Force carrying two tons tea, six MT rice, two MT dhall reached Islambad on October 18.

Environment and Natural Resources Minister A. H. M. Fowzie personally visited Pakistan to convey the sympathies of the Sri Lankan Government and people on the tragic loss of life and property. He also presented a cheque for US$ 100,000 to the Prime Minister of Pakistan.

Rajapakse also discussed the progress on proposed construction of two mosques at Hambantota and Ampara which the Pakistan Government had pledged to undertake.

The High Commissioner informed him that the Pakistani Government had already accorded formal approval to the project and the funds were expected to be released soon.