UNITED NATIONS, Aug 18 (Alliance News): United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has expressed deep sorrow over the heavy loss of life caused by devastating floods in Pakistan and India, assuring that the UN stands ready to provide immediate assistance if either country formally requests it.
In a statement issued through his spokesperson Stephane Dujarric, Guterres conveyed condolences to the bereaved families and stressed the importance of global solidarity at this difficult time.
He said the UN would fully support relief efforts if called upon, emphasizing that “this is the time to stand with the victims.”
Pakistan has faced severe monsoon destruction in recent days, with 323 people losing their lives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in just two days, pushing the nationwide death toll to 657.
The floods have displaced thousands and caused widespread damage to infrastructure and livelihoods.
It may be recalled that Guterres had personally visited Pakistan in 2022 to witness the destruction in Sindh and Balochistan following catastrophic floods, where he urged the international community to step up support.
Meanwhile, a message of solidarity also came from Vatican City, where Pope Leo XIV on Sunday offered prayers for the victims in Pakistan, India, and Nepal.
Expressing his deep sympathies, the Pope said his prayers are with all the families enduring grief and hardship due to the disaster.
