Commonwealth Secy Gen urges help for flood-hit

Commonwealth Secretary General Kamalesh Sharma yesterday called on Commonwealth members and the international community to help those affected by the floods.

Sharma also expressed his distress at the widespread flooding in the central and eastern areas of Sri Lanka that has caused loss of life and led to the displacement of large numbers of people.

"I send my condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives and my sympathies to those who have seen their homes and livelihoods destroyed," he said.

"I see that the UN has launched an emergency appeal for assistance to help those affected by the floods and I have today, in a public statement called on Commonwealth members as well as the wider international community to respond to that appeal.

"Please be assured of our Commonwealth solidarity with the Government and people of Sri Lanka at this difficult time.

"I hope that the international community will rise to the occasion and assist your Government in its reconstruction efforts in the affected areas."