WASHINGTON, Oct 7: Expressing solidarity with Pakistan on the anniversary of last year’s earthquake, the United States on Friday reaffirmed its commitment to reconstruction in quake-devastated areas.

“We join the people of Pakistan during this month of Ramazan, as they mourn the tragic loss of so many innocent victims, and our thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with them at this time of remembrance,” the State Department said.

Deputy Spokesman Tom Casey said in a statement the United States was proud to have played a major role in both the immediate relief effort and the ongoing reconstruction effort.

“Over the course of five months, more than 20 US Chinooks delivered over 14,000 tons of relief supplies, and evacuated hundreds of Pakistani victims.” The United States had also provided more than $240 million in emergency assistance, and monetary contributions from major US corporations and private citizens, including schoolchildren, totalled more than $100 million, he said.

The US has also committed $206 million over the next four years in earthquake reconstruction assistance as part of a five-year $3 billion assistance programme.—APP