Multiple Nations Provide Humanitarian Aid to Disaster-Stricken Sri Lankans

Over one million people in the country have been affected by Cyclone 'Ditwa', and countries such as America, Japan, India, Pakistan, Maldives, and China have come forward to assist the victims and support search operations for those missing due to floods and landslides.

As Sri Lanka faces this severe disaster, with infrastructure collapsing and thousands suffering, the international community has expressed its support.

Commenting on the disaster, US Ambassador to Sri Lanka, Julie Chung, stated that the US government has allocated USD 2 million, or approximately LKR 620 million, to provide urgent assistance to the affected population. She further added that this aid would reach the people through international cooperation agencies, reflecting the unbreakable strong partnership between the two countries during this difficult time for Sri Lanka.

Under 'Operation Sagar Bandhu', India has also increased its humanitarian aid, sending a consignment of 21 tons of aid and 80 members of the National Disaster Response Force via two Indian Air Force aircraft. Additionally, the Indian High Commission confirms that four successful rescue operations have been carried out in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Air Force, utilizing two Chetak helicopters from the Indian Navy's INS Vikrant, and that two more helicopters and teams carrying essential aid have arrived in Sri Lanka.

To assess the disaster situation and health needs, the Japanese government dispatched a special disaster relief team, including officials from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and medical teams, to the island yesterday (30th). To provide essential items such as tents and blankets for the affected population,

the Japanese Embassy stated that Japan has taken steps to actively participate in search and rescue operations in the affected areas.

The neighboring Maldivian government has also decided to provide a financial donation of USD 50,000 and 25,000 cans of tuna for the affected Sri Lankans, further strengthening the friendship between the two nations. Meanwhile, Pakistan's naval vessel 'Saif', carrying a consignment of humanitarian aid, has arrived at the Port of Colombo, and the aid was officially handed over to the Sri Lanka Navy.

The Chinese Embassy in Colombo stated that China, as a close friend of Sri Lanka, has also decided to provide maximum support at this time, adding that the relevant aid and relief teams are already arriving in the country.