Mullah Abdul Ghani Baradar Akhund, the Deputy PM for Economic Affairs, actively participated and delivered a speech during a meeting held in Herat province as part of his visit.
The meeting saw the presence of several prominent figures, including Acting Minister of State for Disaster Management, Mullah Muhammad Abbas Akhund, Deputy Minister of Interior Ministry for Anti-Narcotics, Mullah Abdul Haq Hamkar, Administrative Deputy of Interior Ministry, Maulvi Noor Jalal Jalali, Governor of Herat, Sheikh Al Hadith Maulana Noor Ahmad Islam Jar, Chairman, and members of the Ulama Council, Chief Commander of 207 Al-Farooq Corps, esteemed elders, representatives from the private sector, and numerous civil and security officials.
In his address, Honorable Mullah Baradar Akhund expressed profound condolences for the significant personal and financial losses endured by our fellow countrymen due to the earthquake in the Zinda Jan district of Herat province. He offered prayers for the martyrs and patience to their grieving families, as well as a swift recovery for the injured.
Additionally, Mullah Baradar Akhund emphasized that their visit was not merely an act of consolation but a responsibility. He reiterated that they are servants of the Afghan people, not rulers.
The Deputy Prime Minister noted the duality of emotions experienced during this challenging period, as he expressed sadness over the tragedy while also taking pride in witnessing the unity, love, and mutual respect among the people of Herat.
Mullah Baradar Akhund recounted their visit to the earthquake-affected areas in Zinda Jan district, where they closely observed the extent of damage and interacted with the affected citizens. They participated in the funeral prayers for the martyrs. Subsequently, they visited the provincial hospital to assess the condition of the injured and provided necessary instructions to the medical teams for their treatment.
During his speech, Mullah Baradar Akhund assured the gathering that the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan has mobilized all available resources to aid the affected citizens. Various ministries and departments are working tirelessly to provide urgent assistance and build shelters for those who have lost their homes. He highlighted their commitment to transparently distributing the collected aid to deserving individuals, including the establishment of a dedicated commission for this purpose.
Moreover, he expressed gratitude to the citizens who have extended help to the earthquake victims according to their means and called upon national businessmen, affluent citizens, charitable institutions, and organizations to contribute to saving lives during this challenging period.
Honorable Mullah Baradar Akhund also appealed to international aid institutions and agencies to provide all possible assistance to the earthquake-affected Afghans, emphasizing the urgency of their support during this profound tragedy.