ISLAMABAD, March 31: German forces have concluded relief operations in the earthquake-hit areas of Azad Kashmir and parts of the NWFP. A 60-member German contingent has left Pakistan after winding up its relief operations and flights.

In this period since October 8 earthquake, German helicopters made 1,250 sorties and airlifted 3,000 tons of relief goods to the mountainous areas, VOG reported.

The German government has also announced 68 million euros in emergency aid for the reconstruction phase.

A hospital built by a German relief organisation in Chattar Plain was also handed over to the Pakistani authorities.

The German ambassador in Pakistan said that prolonged relief operations had resulted in enhancing mutual understanding.

He said that now the real task was dispensing the required assistance and gaining cooperation of the affectees in transition period so that the reconstruction process could soon be completed.

“Local people welcomed the German troops with open hearts and the German forces will leave Pakistan with pleasant memories,” the ambassador said. —APP