PM Modi Offers Continued Support to Sri Lanka for Cyclone Ditwah Recovery Efforts

President Dissanayake expressed the gratitude of Sri Lankan people for India's timely assistance.

New Delhi:

Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a telephone conversation with Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake on Monday, pledging India's continued support for rehabilitation efforts in regions devastated by Cyclone Ditwah.

During their discussion, Modi conveyed his condolences for the lives lost and destruction caused in Sri Lanka, emphasizing that the Indian people stand in strong solidarity with their neighbors during this challenging time.

The Sri Lankan President expressed profound gratitude for India's swift response to the disaster, particularly acknowledging the rapid deployment of rescue teams and essential relief materials, according to an official statement released in New Delhi.

Dissanayake specifically highlighted how Sri Lankan citizens appreciated India's prompt and effective emergency response operations following the catastrophe.

"The Prime Minister assured President Dissanayake that India will maintain its support to Sri Lanka through Operation Sagar Bandhu, providing rescue and relief assistance to those affected," the statement mentioned.

Modi reaffirmed that India, consistent with its Vision MAHASAGAR policy and its role as the 'First Responder' in regional crises, would continue providing all necessary assistance as Sri Lanka undertakes rehabilitation efforts, works to restore public services, and helps rebuild livelihoods across the affected regions.

Both leaders committed to maintaining close communication during the recovery period.

Cyclone Ditwah, which struck parts of Sri Lanka last week, caused widespread destruction, affecting over 1.15 million people from 316,366 families.

As of Monday evening, the death toll from floods and landslides triggered by the cyclone had reached 366, with 367 people still reported missing.