(UTV | COLOMBO) – As of noon on August 6, the number of injured Sri Lankans in the explosions in Beirut has increased to 10 persons, whereas the total number injured has exceeded 5,000 persons. The death toll has increased to 137 and information on numbers of missing persons is presently unavailable.
Lebanon declared a state of national mourning for three days while the Supreme Defence Council declared Beirut a disaster city. A state of emergency has been declared for a period of two weeks from August 4. Lebanon is in lockdown status until August 10. Damage to the Chancery and residences of Embassy officials are being repaired while the Sri Lanka Embassy continues to remain open for queries and serves the public between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., daily. Large numbers have been visiting and contacting the Embassy, seeking reassurance and comfort.
A dry ration distribution programme is continuing as large numbers are requesting it.
The Ambassador is continuing close dialogues with the Peace-Keepers of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), and is also in close contact with Lebanese authorities to receive detailed information.
President Gotabaya Rajapaksa’s message of solidarity and condolence conveyed to President Michel Aoun was delivered on August 5 and was acknowledged the same day.
The letter was as follows: “His Excellency Michel Aoun, President of the Republic of Lebanon Your Excellency,
I express my fraternal solidarity with the Lebanese Government following the explosion in Beirut which claimed many lives, injured others and caused considerable damage to property.
At this tragic moment, Sri Lanka stands together in grief and expresses deepest condolences to you through you to the families of the victims, injured as well as to the People and Government of Lebanon.
We wish a speedy recovery for the injured people.
Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.
Gotabaya Rajapaksa,
President of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.”