The Maldives has conveyed condolences to India and Bangladesh following the devastation caused by the super cyclonic storm Amphan.
In a message sent to the Minister of External Affairs of India Dr. S. Jaishankar, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Maldives Abdulla Shahid expressed grief over the news of the intensified super-cyclonic storm Amphan, causing devastation to a large part of West Bengal and Odisha. The minister extended deepest sympathies to the government and the people of India, on behalf of the government and the people of the Maldives, during this time of national distress.
In his message, Minister Shahid also applauded the preparedness and safety measures taken by the central and state governments to minimize the devastations. He expressed hope that the efforts of the emergency response teams proceed with ease and success, and commended the perseverance of the people of India during this crisis.
In the message sent to the Minister Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh Dr. A.K. Abdul Momen, Minister Shahid expressed grief over the tragic news of the cyclone tearing through coastal Bangladesh and over the Bay of Bengal, causing several fatalities, destroyed entire villages and left thousands of people homeless in the country. He extended profound sympathies and condolences to the government and people of Bangladesh during this time of crisis, and wished for a swift and successful recovery for all those affected by the disaster.
Foreign Minister Shahid also commended the excellent measures implemented by the government and authorities of Bangladesh to mitigate and minimise the impacts of this powerful cyclone. He acknowledged as the country battles the trials of the COVID-19 pandemic, Cyclone Amphan would greatly compound the impacts, challenges and recovery efforts for the country.