Havana, Nov 7 (NationPress) In a display of profound solidarity and humanitarian assistance, India has provided around 20 tonnes of Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief (HADR) supplies to Cuba, aimed at supporting recovery efforts in the aftermath of the destruction wrought by Hurricane Melissa.

“Embodying the philosophy of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam — the world is one family — India demonstrates its solidarity with the Cuban populace, reinforcing the ties of friendship and humanitarian collaboration,” declared the Embassy of India in Havana via their X account on Friday.

The consignment of HADR assistance touched down in Cuba on Thursday evening aboard a specialized aircraft from India.

The relief package encompasses a unique Bharat Health Initiative for Sahyog, Hita, and Maitri (BHISHM) medical trauma unit, crucial medications, electricity generators, tents, bedding, kitchen and hygiene kits, solar lanterns, and various other essential items to facilitate recovery.

Previously, on Tuesday, India sent out 20 tonnes of Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) supplies to both Jamaica and Cuba, highlighting its commitment to supporting its Global South partners in the wake of Hurricane Melissa.

On X, External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar remarked: "We have dispatched 20 tonnes each of HADR assistance for Jamaica and Cuba following Hurricane Melissa. An Indian Air Force flight carrying aid, including the Arogya Maitri BHISHM Cube, rehabilitation supplies, food and daily necessities, medicines, medical gear, power generators, shelter support, and hygiene kits, has departed from New Delhi today."

Cuban Foreign Minister Bruno Eduardo Rodríguez Parrilla expressed gratitude towards India on social media, stating, “We extend our thanks to India for the extensive donation of supplies for the victims in eastern Cuba due to Hurricane Melissa. Thank you, esteemed EAM S. Jaishankar, for this commendable gesture from the Indian government.”

Hurricane Melissa, one of the most powerful Atlantic storms recorded, inflicted widespread havoc across the Caribbean, resulting in numerous fatalities and isolating communities.

The storm made landfall in Cuba on October 29 as an “extremely dangerous” Category 3 hurricane, as reported by the US National Hurricane Center (NHC) in Miami. Cuban officials indicated that the island faced “significant damage”, with rising river levels leaving approximately 140,000 people cut off.