President Thabo Mbeki on Sunday conveyed condolences to the leaders of India, Pakistan and Afghanistan, following Saturday’s devastating earthquake that has left at least 19 000 dead.
Mbeki said it is tragic for Asia to experience a natural disaster of this magnitude again within a short while of the deadly tsunami that struck in December last year.
”Our thoughts are with the peoples of your countries, especially those who have lost their loved ones, during this time of national mourning.”
South Africa is ready to assist the government and peoples of earthquake-stricken countries in whatever manner possible, Mbeki said.
South African NGO Gift of the Givers has donated R3-million for relief efforts in earthquake-stricken Pakistan, South African Broadcasting Corporation news reported on Sunday.
Large parts of Pakistan have been devastated by the earthquake.
A spokesperson for Gift of the Givers said the money was released from the NGO’s emergency fund.
The organisation will send its representatives from South-East Asia and Colombo to Pakistan to help in the purchasing of food, blankets, tents and medical supplies.
”We are also looking to send a 15-member medical team from South Africa to Pakistan,” the spokesperson said. — Sapa