Pakistan has dispatched a substantial humanitarian aid package and deployed rescue teams to Sri Lanka to assist with recovery efforts following the devastation of Cyclone Ditwah, as a top official on Tuesday called for stronger regional collaboration to combat escalating climate-related threats.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry, speaking at a media briefing during a two-day visit, expressed deep sympathy for the losses suffered and conveyed condolences on behalf of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and the people of Pakistan. He praised the swift response of the Sri Lankan government and the fortitude demonstrated by the affected communities.
The minister affirmed that Pakistani rescue and relief personnel are already actively engaged in emergency operations on the ground. He stated that the aid package was dispatched on the prime minister’s directives and is being coordinated by Pakistan’s High Commissioner, Maj Gen Faheem ul Aziz, and the National Disaster Management Authority to ensure effective distribution.
‘Pakistan stands with Sri Lanka as a reliable friend and partner, today and always,’ Chaudhry stated, reiterating his country’s readiness to provide all possible humanitarian and technical assistance. He offered prayers for the resilience and recovery of the Sri Lankan people.
Highlighting the long-standing friendship between the two nations, the minister stressed Pakistan’s desire to deepen cooperation in disaster management, maritime safety, and the development of early-warning systems to better address future climate risks.
In a move to further strengthen bilateral relations, Chaudhry also extended an invitation to Sri Lankan media representatives to visit Pakistan and the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, aiming to promote greater people-to-people contact.