Sri Lanka on Wednesday thanked the government and people of Bangladesh for the generous relief support sent to the South Asian country while the Sri Lankan community in Bangladesh issued a heartfelt plea for emergency aid following the catastrophic floods and landslides.

“Our heartfelt appreciation to the Government and people of Bangladesh for the generous relief support sent to Sri Lanka today,” said the Sri Lankan High Commission in Dhaka.

“Your friendship and solidarity strengthen us in this challenging time,” it said as Bangladesh sent emergency humanitarian assistance to cyclone and flood-affected people in Sri Lanka.

As instructed by Chief Adviser Prof Muhammad Yunus, under the coordination of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dhaka and the supervision of the Armed Forces Division, a transport aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force carrying emergency materials landed at Bandaranaike International Airport on Wednesday afternoon.

The consignment was formally handed over by Andalib Elias, the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Sri Lanka, underscoring the continued solidarity of Bangladesh with Sri Lanka during this challenging period.

The relief consignment includes: tent, dry food, mosquito nets, torchlights, gumboots, vests, hand gloves, rescue helmets, and essential medicines.

“We can extend our compassion to the Sri Lankan families who have lost everything. Our immediate donation is a lifeline for them. Please donate today to the account name High Commission of Sri Lanka, account number 1804000073, Commercial Bank of Ceylon, Gulshan Branch, Dhaka. Our every contribution, large or small, will fuel the rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts, ensuring hope prevails over despair,” said the Sri Lankan community in Bangladesh in a media release.

Bangladesh sends emergency relief for cyclone, flood-affected people in Sri Lanka

Cyclone Ditwah and relentless monsoon rains have tragically claimed over 450 lives, over 100 people are missing, over 30,000 homes have been destroyed, and over 850,000 people have been affected, they said in a media release.

For decades, the bond between Sri Lanka and Bangladesh has been a testament to South Asian solidarity, as they share common values and stand together in times of need.

Now, it is time for the people and institutions of Bangladesh and the community to honor that friendship, said the community.