Islamic Republic of Iran pledges medical assistance to Sri Lanka

The Islamic Republic of Iran has pledged urgently needed medical assistance to Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Ambassador to the Islamic Republic of Iran G. M. Vipulatheja Wishwanath A pons um et several key dignitaries including Health Deputy Minister Dr. Mohammed Hossein Niknam, Foreign Ministry of Iran Director General ( West Asia) Dr. Seyyed Rasoul Mousavi and Head of the Iranian Red Crescent Society ( IRCS) Dr. Pir Hossein Kolivandon recently at their offices in Tehran.

The main objective of the meetings were to develop collaboration in health and pharmaceutical sectors between Sri Lanka and Iran under the framework of South- South cooperation.

While appreciating Iran’s continued assistance to Sri Lanka, the Sri Lankan envoy outlined the current challenges in Sri Lanka particularly the lack of pharmaceuticals and medical utilities.

Highlighting the longstanding friendly relations between Iran and Sri Lanka, the Iranian dignitaries assured that the Government of Iran would continue extending assistance to Sri Lanka in every possible way to overcome the current challenges in Sri Lanka.

In response to the Ambassador’s request on urgent requirement of medical equipment, Head of the IRCS conveyed that his organisation will able to offer medical aid to Sri Lanka after reviewing Sri Lanka’s needs.

Further, the Iranian key personnel expressed that the Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to provide medical education and trainings, medical equipment and pharmaceuticals items to Sri Lanka. They also stated that Iran is willing to invest in health and pharmaceutical sectors in Sri Lanka.

The Head of IRCS Dr. Kolivand stated that if Sri Lanka is interested in obtaining health services, the IRCS can dispatch its health team to Sri Lanka as appropriate for treatment of patients who are in unprivileged areas. The Sri Lanka Ambassador Aponsu assured them to bring the Iranian proposals to the attention of health authorities in Sri Lanka for consideration.

The Ambassador thanked the above dignitaries for facilitating the productive deliberations and conveyed the deep appreciation of the Government of Sri Lanka to Iran’s pledge of donation of medical aid.

Expert( West Asia) of the Iranian Foreign Ministry Mohomad Deldhari was also present at the discussions.