The President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee has condoled the loss of lives and large scale destruction caused by the cyclone that struck Vanuatu last Friday.
In his message to HE Mr. Baldwin Lonsdale, the President of Republic of Vanuatu, the President has said, "I was deeply concerned to learn of the loss of life and large scale destruction caused by the cyclone that struck Vanuatu last Friday.
I extend, on behalf of the Government and people of India, deepest condolences to the Government and people of Vanuatu. Our sympathies and prayers are with the bereaved and displaced families.
I understand that relief and rescue efforts are ongoing and I am confident that the Government and people of Vanuatu will overcome the devastation caused by the disaster with fortitude and determination. The people of India stand by the people of Vanuatu at this difficult time”.
This release issued at 1620 hrs.