Sri Lanka's first million-dollar donation to Nepal in an overseas disaster

The Sri Lankan government has decided to provide financial assistance of one million US dollars to alleviate the difficulties faced by the people of Nepal due to severe floods and landslides. This money will be provided on the instructions of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, and in addition, steps have been taken to send a Sri Lankan medical team for the treatment of the affected and to provide stocks of rice for food needs.

Analysts point out that this occasion, which will go down in history as the first time Sri Lanka has granted such a sum of money in a disaster in a foreign country, indicates preliminary signs of the strengthening Sri Lankan economy, while various criticisms are emerging on social media regarding this.

In a post on his X account, the President stated that Sri Lanka is ready to assist in the emergency rescue and relief operations underway in Nepal. The President expressed deep regret over the devastating loss of life in Nepal, pointing out that as a nation still rebuilding after facing a deadly cyclone 10 months ago, and extended heartfelt condolences to Nepal on behalf of the Government and people of Sri Lanka.

Meanwhile, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, Vijitha Herath, also held a telephone conversation with Nepali Foreign Minister Shiser Khanal, expressing Sri Lanka's full support. Emphasizing the close and long-standing friendship between the two countries, the Ministry announced that it will work closely with the Government of Nepal on how to further contribute to Nepal's relief and recovery efforts.

On the other hand, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has taken urgent steps to obtain information about Sri Lankans affected by the adverse weather conditions in Nepal and the Tibetan border areas, and to provide them with necessary assistance. If any information about Sri Lankans in those areas is needed or assistance is required, Mr. Thusara Rodrigo, Director General of the Public Diplomacy Division and Media Spokesperson, can be contacted via phone numbers 070 7887778, 0112 473899 or email publicity@mfa.gov.lk. As the current volume of calls is high, the Ministry further requests the public to provide information via WhatsApp (070 7887778) as much as possible for faster communication.