Cyclone Ditwah : What are the international donations received so far?

December 2, 2025 at 3:35 PM

Sri Lanka continues to receive significant international support following the devastation caused by Cyclone Ditwah, which has resulted in hundreds of deaths and left hundreds of thousands displaced across the country. 

According to the President’s Office, as recovery operations intensify, nations across the world have expressed solidarity, while several key allies have mobilised direct relief assistance on the ground.

India has taken a leading role in immediate emergency response efforts. Prime Minister Narendra Modi conveyed heartfelt condolences to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and reaffirmed that India “stands firmly beside Sri Lanka and its people in this difficult hour,” pledging continued support under Operation Sagar Bandhu for relief, rescue and rehabilitation efforts. He further assured that India will extend “all necessary support” as Sri Lanka moves into recovery. Earlier, India dispatched humanitarian assistance through INS Vikrant and INS Udaygiri, which delivered relief materials in Colombo, with further deployment underway. 

Pakistan has also delivered substantial emergency supplies, with the Pakistan Navy Ship PNS SAIF handing over relief items through the Sri Lankan Navy to support families affected by flooding. 

The United States strengthened its humanitarian contribution with the delivery of 20,000 polysacks to reinforce embankments and mitigate rising water levels, while additional supplies, including generators, cooking stoves, water bins and tents, will be provided through the World Food Programme (WFP). 

Further deepening engagement, US Special Envoy for South and Central Asian Affairs Sergio Gor spoke with President Dissanayake on Thursday, during which the President conveyed Sri Lanka’s gratitude for continued U.S. support. The United States reiterated its commitment to stand by Sri Lanka, noting that it is closely monitoring the evolving situation and extended deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones. The call highlighted ongoing cooperation as Sri Lanka faces one of its worst natural disasters in recent years.

Australia has pledged AUD 1 million for immediate response and early recovery assistance, while Nepal announced a contribution of USD 200,000 to support relief efforts. 

The Maldives confirmed the donation of USD 50,000 along with 25,000 cases of tuna cans, expressing solidarity with Sri Lankan communities affected by the disaster. Additionally, the Sri Lankan expatriate business community in the Maldives contributed USD 33,000 to ongoing operations. 

The United Nations in Sri Lanka is also coordinating efforts with national authorities to support rescue, emergency relief and early recovery initiatives. 

Meanwhile, several other nations and international partners,  including China, Türkiye, Cuba, Bangladesh, the European Union, the State of Palestine and Nicaragua, have extended condolences and messages of solidarity, pledging to stand by Sri Lanka during this period of national mourning and rebuilding. 

As relief continues to arrive by sea and air, Sri Lanka’s recovery effort is being strengthened by a unified global response, reflecting deep diplomatic partnerships and regional cooperation in disaster management. 

The government has stated that international coordination remains critical as communities begin the long process of rebuilding homes, livelihoods and essential infrastructure. (Newswire)