February 10, 2008	Sunday	Safar 02, 1429

ISLAMABAD, Feb 9: Azerbaijan has assured to continue supporting reconstruction and rehabilitation in the quake-hit areas of Pakistan.

The assurance was held out by a delegation led by member of the Azebaijan’s parliament, Elder Ibrahimo, which called on Earthquake Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Authority (Erra) Chairman Altaf Mohammad Saleem here.

According to a press release, the delegation included the Azeri ambassador, Eynullah Matadli, Executive Director of Hyder Aliyev Foundation Anar Alakbarov, Ramin Guluzade and Ali Irvali, head of Turcon. Erra’s Deputy Chairman Lt-Gen Nadeem Ahmed also attended the meeting.

Mr Saleem appreciated the government and the people of Azerbaijan for their meaningful support during relief and reconstruction efforts in the earthquake-affected areas. He said Rara Girls Higher Secondary School built by Azerbaijan was a great symbol of friendship between the peoples of Azerbaijan and Pakistan.

Altaf Mohammad Saleem said the people of the two countries shared a long history of cordial relations, and the increasing cooperation between the brotherly countries would go a long way in strengthening bilateral relations. He said the valuable support of Azerbaijan would have a substantial effect on the long-term rehabilitation of life in the quake-hit areas.

The executive director of Hyder Aliyev Foundation hoped that the children coming out of this School would contribute in the development of their areas and country. He said their organisation would continue to extend all possible assistance to revive life in the earthquake-affected areas.

Erra Deputy Chairman Lt-Gen Nadeem Ahmad said the school that was completed in a record time stood out for its quality construction in the affected areas.

He said due to timely completion of the school building the young girls were now able to shift to a proper school that would help enhance quality of education, besides save children from harsh weather conditions.

Later, the delegation visited Rara, Muzaffarabad, and inaugurated the Girls Higher Secondary School built by Hyder Aliyev Foundation of Azerbaijan at a cost of $700,000.