India extends $1 million immediate relief aid to Papua New Guinea post-volcanic eruption: MEA

NEW DELHI: India on Wednesday pledged immediate relief assistance of 1 million US dollar to Papua New Guinea following a recent volcanic eruption, standing in solidarity with its close partner under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC), said MEA.

https://www.mea.gov.in/press-releases.htm?dtl/37347/India_announces_US_1_million_immediate_relief_assistance_to_Papua_New_Guinea_in_the_wake_of_volcanic_eruption

"India extends deep sympathy to the Government and the people of Papua New Guinea for the damage and destruction caused by the disaster," the Ministry of External Affairs said in an official statement.

A major volcanic eruption Mount Ulawun, the South Pacific nation's most active volcano in Papua New Guinea erupted on November 20, spewing ash as high as 15 kilometers (50,000 feet) tallest volcano. It forced the evacuation of over 26,000 people and created urgent humanitarian needs.

"As a close friend and development partner under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC) and as a gesture of solidarity with the friendly people of Papua New Guinea, the Government of India extends immediate relief assistance to support relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts in Papua New Guinea," the statement said.

India has consistently supported Papua New Guinea during crises triggered by natural disasters, such as the Earthquake in 2018 and the 2019 volcanic eruption.

The ulawun volcano, active since the 1700s, experienced a significant eruption in 2019, forcing over 5,000 individuals to evacuate, as reported by Al Jazeera.

(With input from agencies)

Select The Times of India as your preferred source on Google Search