Sri Lanka thanks govt, people of Bangladesh for support
Online desk: Sri Lanka on Wednesday expressed deep gratitude to the government and people of Bangladesh for the emergency relief assistance sent in the aftermath of catastrophic floods and landslides caused by Cyclone Ditwah.
“Our heartfelt appreciation to the Government and people of Bangladesh for the generous relief support sent to Sri Lanka today,” the Sri Lankan High Commission in Dhaka said in a message. “Your friendship and solidarity strengthen us in this challenging time.”
Acting on directives from Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, Bangladesh dispatched urgent humanitarian aid through a Bangladesh Air Force transport aircraft under the coordination of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the supervision of the Armed Forces Division. The aircraft carrying emergency materials landed at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport on Wednesday afternoon.
Bangladesh High Commissioner to Sri Lanka Andalib Elias formally handed over the consignment, reaffirming Bangladesh’s continued solidarity with Sri Lanka during the crisis.
The relief shipment included tents, dry food, mosquito nets, torchlights, gumboots, vests, hand gloves, rescue helmets, and essential medicines.
Meanwhile, the Sri Lankan community in Bangladesh issued an emotional appeal for further support, urging individuals and institutions to donate to the High Commission of Sri Lanka’s relief fund. “Our every contribution, large or small, will fuel the rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts, ensuring hope prevails over despair,” the community said.
Cyclone Ditwah and relentless monsoon rains have claimed more than 450 lives, left over 100 people missing, destroyed 30,000 homes, and affected more than 850,000 people, according to the community’s statement.
For decades, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have shared a close bond rooted in South Asian solidarity. “Now is the time for the people and institutions of Bangladesh to honor that friendship,” the Sri Lankan community said.
