Sri Lanka Seeks Global Aid Amid Cyclone Ditwah Devastation

President Anura Kumara Dissanayake expressed gratitude to neighboring countries, notably India, for their swift assistance following Cyclone Ditwah. As the island grapples with severe flooding and infrastructure collapse, the disaster has claimed over 600 lives. Sri Lanka seeks further international aid to address the devastation and rebuild its economy.

In the wake of Cyclone Ditwah's catastrophic impact, Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake has extended heartfelt thanks to 'friendly neighboring countries,' including India, for their prompt emergency relief. The island nation faces severe challenges, with over 600 fatalities reported amid widespread flooding and landslides.

India was the first to respond under its 'Operation Sagar Bandhu,' providing much-needed aid as Sri Lanka's disaster-response capacity struggles. President Dissanayake, speaking in parliament, emphasized that support from regional allies is crucial as the country aims to navigate the crisis and assess its economic toll.

Despite the turmoil, Dissanayake reaffirmed plans to pursue the national budget and development goals, rejecting opposition calls for an interim budget. He also highlighted efforts to secure enhanced IMF assistance, while a political divide continues over the government's crisis management efficiency.