(Colombo, High Commission Sources) –
The Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs of Pakistan, Mr. Muhammad Junaid Anwar, is currently on a two-day official visit to Sri Lanka to convey the condolences and solidarity of the Pakistani government following the devastation caused by the recent cyclone “DITWAH”.
Addressing a press briefing held today at the High Commission of Pakistan in Colombo, Minister Anwar delivered a message of sympathy on behalf of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and the people of Pakistan, emphasizing that Pakistan stands firmly with Sri Lanka during this difficult time.
Humanitarian Aid and Rescue Teams Deployed The Minister announced that, following special instructions from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, a major humanitarian assistance package has already been dispatched to Sri Lanka. Furthermore, Pakistani rescue teams and personnel have arrived on the island and are actively engaged in operations to protect lives and support ongoing relief efforts.
Coordinated Relief Distribution To ensure the smooth and timely distribution of relief consignments, the High Commissioner of Pakistan in Colombo, Maj General Faheem ul Aziz, along with the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of Pakistan, is closely coordinating with relevant Sri Lankan authorities.
Minister Anwar also expressed deep admiration for the swift actions taken by the Sri Lankan Government and commended the courage displayed by the affected communities in the face of the disaster.
Focus on Climate Resilience and Regional Cooperation Highlighting that Pakistan itself faced massive floods just a few months ago, the Minister stressed the urgent need for regional countries to work more closely together to tackle climate-related challenges, which are escalating annually. He expressed Pakistan’s desire to further strengthen cooperation with Sri Lanka in the fields of disaster management, maritime safety, and early-warning systems.
Concluding his address, Minister Anwar reassured the Sri Lankan public, stating, “I want to assure the people of Sri Lanka that Pakistan stands with you as a reliable friend and partner, today and always”.