30 December 2004	Thursday	17 Ziqa'ad 1425

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 29: Prime Minister Shaukat On Wednesday telephoned Indian Prime Minister Dr Manmohan Singh conveyed his heartfelt condolence and sympathy over the massive destruction and tragic loss of life in southern India as a result of an earthquake and tidal wave.

The prime minister also expressed the condolence on behalf of the government and the people of Pakistan. During the conversation with Dr Manmohan Singh, Mr Aziz said the news of the tragedy, was received by the people of Pakistan with a great sense of shock and sorrow.

He conveyed profound sympathies to bereaved families of the victims in India. The prime minister said that the enormity of the destruction demanded continued and concerted regional and world response to meet this challenge.

The prime minister said Pakistan was ready to render any assistance that India may need in this regard. Prime Minister Manmohan Singh expressed his gratitude for Mr Aziz's telephone call and his expression of support for the efforts under way for relief and rescue. Dr Singh said that this gracious gesture would go a long way in promoting ties between Pakistan and India. -APP