In the wake of the widespread devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwa in Sri Lanka, and in response to the Government of Sri Lanka’s appeal for international assistance, the Government of Pakistan has dispatched a major humanitarian relief consignment to support the cyclone-affected population.
On the special directives of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and with the support of the Field Marshal & Chief of Army Staff, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has arranged a sea cargo shipment carrying 200 tons of essential relief supplies. The consignment includes tents, blankets, quilts, life jackets, rescue boats, de-watering pumps, rechargeable lamps, sleeping mats, mosquito nets, infant dry milk, ready-to-use therapeutic food (RUTF), and essential medicines to address urgent needs for shelter, nutrition, health, and safety. Humanitarian partners like Al Khidmat Foundation also contributed in relief consignment.
Due to India’s refusal to grant overflight clearance for the humanitarian mission, the dispatch was rerouted via sea, resulting in an unavoidable delay. Despite this challenge, NDMA swiftly mobilized resources to ensure the timely departure of the aid, which is now en route and expected to reach Sri Lanka within eight days.
A send-off ceremony was held in Islamabad to mark the departure of the shipment. The event was attended by the Ambassador of Sri Lanka to Pakistan, H.E. Rear Admiral (Rtd) Ravindra C. Wijegunaratne, Defence Attaché of Sri Lanka, Minister of State Mr. Bilal Azhar Kiyani as Chief Guest, senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, NDMA, Alkhidmat Foundation, and members of the media.
Speaking at the occasion, Minister of State Mr. Bilal Azhar Kiyani commended NDMA’s rapid response and efficient mobilization of critical relief resources, stating that NDMA’s swift and coordinated action in the face of logistical challenges is a testament to Pakistan’s unwavering commitment to humanitarian values and regional solidarity.
Ambassador of Sri Lanka, H.E. Rear Admiral Fred Senevirathne (Rtd), expressed deep gratitude to the Government of Pakistan, remarkig that people of Sri Lanka are profoundly moved by Pakistan’s resolute and timely assistance during this hour of need. This gesture reflects the enduring friendship and mutual support that define our bilateral relations.
NDMA reaffirmed Pakistan’s steadfast commitment to supporting friendly nations in times of crisis, emphasizing that the Authority remains fully dedicated to mitigating the impacts of disasters both domestically and internationally.
Pakistan will continue to extend all possible support to Sri Lanka as it undertakes recovery and rehabilitation efforts, reflecting the deep-rooted bonds of brotherhood, compassion, and solidarity between the two nations.
