• WHO pledges to supply medical assistance worth US $ 1.37Mn

By Kelum Bandara 

In the wake of an imminent health crisis, Sri Lanka is in the rush for securing pharmaceuticals both in terms of donations and purchases, Daily Mirror learns. The country has run out of essential drugs and surgical equipment due to lack of foreign exchange to import them.

Asked about the latest situation, newly appointed Health Minister Prof. Channa Jayasumana said the letters of credit were opened up import drugs, but it would naturally take 90 more days to secure supplies in the country. However, he said the World Health Organisation (WHO), in a recent meeting with him, pledged to provide emergency medical assistance worth US $ 1.37 million. 

That is in addition to US $ 1million medical supplies each committed by Indonesia and Thailand. Besides, India is sending a consignment of emergency medicines and items.  China is also about to send supplies, but has not specified details yet.

The Minister is also expected to hold talks with the Japanese authorities.