Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena thanked the Chinese government and its people for their assistance to flood-hit families in the island country.

Along with tents, blankets and funds donated by the Chinese government and companies, the Buddhist Association of China on Saturday also donated 22 million rupees (144,000 U.S. dollars) to the Disaster Relief Fund to assist the families affected by the disaster.

Speaking to Chinese monks and officials who were present from the donation, Sirisena said China had immediately responded to Sri Lanka’s call for aid and had sent three ships of relief items for the victims.

In addition, he said, a Chinese flight with more relief items is also expected to arrive in the island country.

“Many countries have helped us by sending ships and flights filled with relief items. Many have donated funds as well. On behalf of the government and its people, I wish to thank all these countries. These funds will now be used to build houses for those affected,” Sirisena said.

The president said China and Sri Lanka have shared a long lasting friendship which would only continue to be further strengthened.

The Chinese relief items, along with donations of funds, have been distributed to thousands of Sri Lankan people affected by the floods and landslides which hit the nation earlier this week.

An 18-member Chinese Blue Sky Rescue Team is also in the country, assisting forces and authorities to conduct cleaning operations, medical care and disease prevention in some of the worst-hit areas.

-Xinhua
-Agencies