Russia provides critical disaster relief to Madagascar (VIDEO, PHOTOS)

The shipment was ordered by President Vladimir Putin to address shortages caused by cyclones

Russia has delivered critical humanitarian aid to Madagascar, including around 60 tons of food, to support relief efforts after two consecutive cyclones, the Russian Embassy in the island nation has reported.

Last month, Madagascar was struck by two powerful tropical systems, Gezani and Fytia, in quick succession. Fytia hit on January 31, causing severe flooding in the northwest and central highlands, killing at least 14 and displacing over 31,000.

Gezani struck the eastern coast near Toamasina, the country’s main port, on February 10, devastating nearly 90% of infrastructure, killing at least 59, and leaving hundreds of thousands without shelter or clean water. The government declared a national state of emergency on February 14.

On February 19, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed support for Madagascar during talks in Moscow with the country’s interim president, Michael Randrianirina, and directed the Defense and Emergency Situations Ministries to provide aid.

The handover ceremony was held at Antananarivo International Airport on February 27. Russia’s Ministry of Emergency Situations provided 60 tons of food – 30 tons of rice, 16 tons of red beans, and 13 tons of vegetable oil.

The Defense Ministry supplied six trucks, sugar, pasta, and sunflower oil. Two Mi-8 helicopters were also deployed to reach remote areas.

Footage released by Ruptly shows Randrianirina inspecting the equipment on the runway and attending the cargo handover ceremony alongside senior civilian and military officials.

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At the event, Russia’s deputy head of mission in Madagascar, Aleksey Buryak, expressed solidarity with the Malagasy people.

“Providing assistance is a manifestation of the traditional relations of friendship and mutual support between our countries, as well as confirmation of Russia’s readiness to respond promptly to emergencies and assist partners in overcoming the consequences of natural disasters,” the diplomatic mission quoted Buryak as saying.

The latest shipment is at least the second since the storms hit, following last week’s delivery of an Mi-8 helicopter, trucks, and other supplies.

READ MORE: Putin highlights expanding cooperation with Madagascar (PHOTOS)

During last month’s talks in Moscow, Putin highlighted the broad scope of cooperation between Russia and Madagascar. Randrianirina expressed readiness to expand cooperation and “move to the next stage” in bilateral ties.