Peru dispatches 12.5 tonnes of relief supplies to earthquake-hit Colombia

Peru has launched a major humanitarian response to support Colombia after a devastating earthquake struck the neighbouring country. On Tuesday, President Keiko Fujimori oversaw the departure of a Peruvian Air Force Hercules aircraft carrying the first consignment of relief supplies from a military base in Callao.

The aid package, weighing 12.5 tonnes, includes essential items such as food, tents, warm clothing, beds, mattresses, mosquito nets, and kitchenware. These supplies are intended to address the most urgent needs of families affected by the disaster.

Speaking at the dispatch ceremony, President Fujimori expressed solidarity with the Colombian people and government. "We have all seen, through the images, the terrible tragedy that has occurred in our sister country, Colombia," she said. "We send our full solidarity to the Colombian people, to President Abelardo de la Espriella and his government."

The President was accompanied by Prime Minister Luis Galarreta, Defence Minister Rafael Belaúnde, and Foreign Minister Carlos Espá, underscoring the coordinated nature of the relief effort.

Fujimori also announced that this is only the first phase of Peru's assistance. A second operation is already being planned to reinforce emergency relief efforts on Colombian territory, signalling a continued commitment to helping the country recover from the earthquake's impact.