PoK quake: A year later, more prayers, promises

On the eve of the first anniversary of the massive quake that killed over 73,000 people and left thousands homeless in Pakistan, the US has expressed heartfelt prayers and reiterated its commitment to work with Islamabad for a 'hopeful and prosperous' future.

'We join the people of Pakistan during this month of Ramadan, as they mourn the tragic loss of so many innocent victims, and our thoughts and heartfelt prayers are with them at this time of remembrance,' State Department Deputy Spokesman Tom Casey said in a statement.

'The United States is proud to have played a major role in both immediate relief effort and the ongoing reconstruction effort. Over the course of five months, more than 20 US Chinooks delivered over 14,000 tons of relief supplies and evacuated hundreds of Pakistani victims,' Casey said.

The United States has also provided more than $240 million in emergency assistance, and monetary contributions from major US corporations and private citizens -- including school children from across the country -- has totaled more than $100

million, the State Department official said.

'The US is also committing $206 million over the next four years in earthquake reconstruction assistance as part of a five-year, $3 billion assistance programme to improve Pakistan's health and education sectors and promote good governance, security, and economic growth,' Casey said.

'These efforts are a reflection of the ongoing commitment and enduring friendship that exists between the peoples of the United States and Pakistan, and, as we join the people of Pakistan at this  time of remembrance, we wish to reaffirm our commitment to working together towards a hopeful and prosperous future,' he said.