ISLAMABAD, Jan 4: The first batch of relief from Pakistan reached the Indonesian province of North Sumatra on Tuesday to help people affected by tsunami.

According to the ISPR, Governor of North Sumatra, Rizal Nurruddin, received the consignment at the Maidan City airport and appreciated Pakistan's assistance to the Indonesian brethren.

He said Indonesia was receiving relief goods and assistance from many countries, and assistance from brotherly Muslim countries was encouraging. Pakistan is extending all possible assistance to Indonesia.

It also dispatched a contingent of troops on Monday to establish a field hospital for tsunami victims and participate in the rehabilitation work. Pakistan Army doctors, paramedics and engineers are part of the 250-member Task Force sent to Indonesia who will help in removal of debris, construction of makeshift shelters and other evacuation efforts.

It comprises 165 persons of Pakistan Army Engineers, Military Engineering Services and 57 Pakistan Army doctors and paramedics staff and has enough logistic support to carry out relief operation. -APP