ISLAMABAD: The US sent a team of experts on Sunday to help in the search operation for the people missing since the avalanche struck.

The army said a team of eight experts had been sent by the United State to Islamabad to provide technical assistance.

The team will be consulted to determine what help is needed to expedite the rescue operation.

While offering the assistance, the US embassy had expressed its “deep concern” for the soldiers trapped in the avalanche.“We offer our condolences for those who have lost their lives as a result of the avalanche,” the embassy said.

“The United States is ready to assist Pakistan in search, rescue and recovery operations.”

The assistance comes at a tense time between the two countries and could help improve relations strained following US air strikes in November that killed 24 Pakistani soldiers at two posts along the Afghan border.—AP/AFP