US House approves relief aid for flood-hit Pakistan

Washington, Sept 17 (ANI): In the wake of the vast devastation caused by unprecedented floods in Pakistan, the US House of Representatives has approved a resolution, by a vote of 396 to 2, approving relief aid and expressing solidarity with the Asian nation.

The House "expresses its deepest condolences and sympathy to the families of the victims of the floods, and its solidarity with the millions of affected Pakistanis," the resolution said.

The resolution further said that it recognised that "Pakistan is and remains a close ally and friend of the United States" and "reaffirms the commitment of the people of the United States to partner with the people of Pakistan to respond to the immediate crisis and build the foundations for a successful and lasting recovery", The Nation reported.

The resolution supports the use of funds by America towards relief efforts and "urges the United States administration and the international community, including private citizens and foreign governments, to continue providing assistance" to the flood-devastated country.

The US government had provided $260-million in emergency humanitarian aid- including halaal meals, pre-fabricated steel bridges and other infrastructure for Pakistan, according to the White House last week. (ANI)