The Singapore government will make a US$100,000 (S$138,490) contribution to support disaster relief efforts in Sri Lanka following the loss of lives and destruction caused by heavy flooding and landslides across the country.

The contribution was revealed in letters written by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and Minister for Foreign Affairs Dr Vivian Balakrishnan to their Sri Lankan counterparts, Mr Ranil Wickremesinghe and Mr Ravi Karunanayake, respectively.

The contribution is intended to kickstart a public fundraising appeal by the Singapore Red Cross.

“I am saddened by the tragic loss of lives and devastation caused by the floods and landslides in Sri Lanka. On behalf of the Government of Singapore, I offer my deepest condolences to the bereaved families and those affected by the disaster,” Prime Minister Lee wrote in his letter to Mr Wickremesinghe.

Expressing hope that those affected by the disaster would be able to resume a normal life soon, Mr Lee wrote, “Our thoughts are with the people of Sri Lanka during this difficult time.”

In his letter to Mr Karunanayake, Dr Balakrishnan wrote: “I am deeply saddened by the lives lost and displaced by the floods and landslides caused by heavy monsoon rains in Sri Lanka.”

“My sympathies go out to all those affected, especially the families of the bereaved, as well as the Government of Sri Lanka,” he added.

Singapore stands ready to support Sri Lanka’s relief efforts, said Dr Balakrishnan, adding, “I am confident that Sri Lanka and her people will overcome this tragedy with resilience and fortitude, and emerge stronger than before.”

Source: Straits Times

-Agencies