4 May 2020 12:21 pm
Australia has extended its support to Sri Lanka prepare for, and prevent, the spread of COVID-19, and to manage the social and economic impacts to come.
Issuing a press release, the Australian High Commission in Colombo said Australia assisted Sri Lanka after the 2004 Tsunami, floods in 2015 to 2019, the 2019 Easter attacks and assured its continuous support in the future.
“The strong friendship between Australia and Sri Lanka goes back more than 70 years. In the unprecedented global crisis unfolding as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever that friends continue to support each other,” the statement said.
“Australia has committed AUD 1.5million to support Sri Lanka’s response to COVID-19. Since 5 March, Australia has been quick to respond to the Sri Lankan Government’s requests for support and to the needs of communities. We have partnered with UN agencies and local partners to identify priorities and coordinate our response,” it added.
Australia’s assistance has provided health equipment and support to the Sri Lankan Government, as well as providing crucial food and hygiene items to Sri Lankan communities including medical equipment, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for frontline workers, IT equipment, hygiene and sanitation items.