Caracas/New Delhi, 04 July (H.S.): Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil on Saturday expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Government of India for launching Operation Amistad, describing the humanitarian mission as a true example of brotherhood during Venezuela's ongoing recovery from the devastating earthquakes that struck the country last month.

Speaking after visiting the Indian field hospital established in Caracas, Gil said the medical facility reflects the close friendship between India and Venezuela. Accompanied by India's Ambassador to Venezuela, P.K. Ashok Babu, the minister praised the dedication of the Indian medical and disaster response teams serving earthquake victims around the clock.

Gil said the hospital has been providing comprehensive medical care to nearly 400 people every day. The facility offers emergency treatment for fractures, injuries and trauma sustained during the earthquakes, along with dental services, X-ray facilities, minor surgical procedures and medical assistance to rescue personnel injured while carrying out relief operations.

He thanked Prime Minister Modi for extending timely humanitarian assistance, saying the mission demonstrated India's solidarity with the Venezuelan people during a period of immense grief and hardship. Gil also conveyed the gratitude of Acting President Delcy Rodríguez and the people of Venezuela to the Indian doctors, nurses, paramedics and relief personnel for their tireless service.

Operation Amistad was launched by India following the powerful earthquakes that struck Venezuela on June 24, causing widespread destruction and triggering a large-scale humanitarian response. The Indian field hospital was established to provide emergency healthcare and support local medical services in the affected areas.

The World Health Organization (WHO) said the disaster has claimed more than 2,300 lives, injured over 5,000 people and left nearly 16,000 homeless. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said the organisation is coordinating emergency medical teams, delivering critical medical supplies and supporting Venezuela's health system as relief efforts transition from search and rescue to long-term recovery.

India's humanitarian assistance under Operation Amistad forms part of its broader commitment to providing rapid disaster relief and medical support to countries affected by natural calamities, reinforcing its role as a dependable partner in global humanitarian response efforts.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar