Pakistan’s 22nd Prime Minister Imran Khan extends a helping hand to India’s flood-hit Kerala after UAE comes forward.
Issuing a brief statement on Twitter, Imran conveyed prayers and best wishes on behalf of the people of Pakistan to those affected by the worst flood in a century in the Indian state of Kerala.
He added that Pakistan was ready to provide humanitarian assistance that may be needed:
On behalf of the people of Pakistan, we send our prayers and best wishes to those who have been devastated by the floods in Kerala, India. We stand ready to provide any humanitarian assistance that may be needed.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) August 23, 2018
237 people have been killed since August 8 and over 14 lakh displaced after days of torrential rain in Kerala earlier this month. The state has incurred losses estimated around Rs. 20,000 crores. Though the Kerala government had asked for Rs. 2,600 for immediate relief, the centre has allocated Rs.600 crore so far.
DECLINING UAE’S HELP
The centre maintains that it will not accept financial help for Kerala from other countries. “In line with existing policy, the government of India is committed to meeting the requirements for relief and rehabilitation through domestic efforts,” the foreign ministry said in a statement.
India on Wednesday politely declined financial aid of $100 million from UAE among other foreign governments citing an existing policy.
Apart from the UAE, Maldives has offered $50,000 as financial aid to Kerala.
“The government of India deeply appreciates offers from several countries, including from foreign governments, to assist in relief and rehabilitation efforts after the tragic floods in Kerala,” External Affairs Ministry spokesperson Raveesh Kumar said in a statement.
“In line with the existing policy, the government is committed to meeting the requirements for relief and rehabilitation through domestic efforts,” Kumar said.
“Contributions to the Prime Minister’s Relief Fund and the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund from NRIs, PIOs and international entities such as foundations would, however, be welcome.”
Sources in New Delhi also told IANS that current stand stemmed from a decision taken by the then UPA-I government after the 2004 tsunami when it decided that India will not be accepting financial aid directly from foreign governments.
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