India extends $5 lakh relief assistance to Vanuatu in wake of devastating earthquake

India has extended a relief assistance of five lakh dollars to Vanuatu to support relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts. An earthquake of magnitude 7.4 struck near Vanuatu’s coast in the South Pacific Ocean on the 17th of last month causing major destruction and loss of life. India extended its deep condolences to the Government and the people of Vanuatu for the damage and destruction caused by this unprecedented disaster and conveyed its readiness to extend all possible support and assistance in this time of difficulty. As a close friend and partner under the Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation FIPIC, India has firmly stood by Vanuatu during times of difficulty and devastation caused by natural disasters. Ministry of External Affairs said, an important pillar of India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in November 2019, is Disaster Risk Reduction and Management. The Ministry said, India is committed to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief and continues to be a responsible and steadfast responder in the region.