Flood: Pakistan PM thanks Modi for offering help in PoK

"I gratefully acknowledge your letter of 7 September, conveying deep sympathies for the people affected in Pakistan by unprecedented monsoon rains and consequent flooding. The offer for assistance in our relief efforts is equally thoughtful. Such solidarity in the face of adversity is indeed valuable," Sharif said in his response as released by the Pakistan Foreign Office.

"I was anguished to see the scale of human suffering and physical destruction as I toured affected areas of Kashmir the other day. I am aware that the Kashmiris on the other side of the Line of Control have also faced heavy loss of life and material damage. Our thoughts and prayers are with the bereaved families in this difficult time, and we remain prepared to extend a helping hand, in whatever way possible, to the efforts for their relief and rehabilitation," he said.

"It is an unfortunate reality that South Asia remains one of the most disaster-prone regions of the world. As we chart a course to advance our common goals of peace and stability, we must also focus on addressing the deeper causes of recurrent floods and on strengthening the preparedness and resilience of our communities against natural calamities. I believe closer collaboration in disaster management should be a part of our agenda of peace and development in the region," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had written to Sharif offering assistance in the flood relief effort in Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.