All Iranians beside Kermanshah; Gov't fully committed to helping victims

Dr Hassan Rouhani, who arrived in Kermanshah on Tuesday morning to visit earthquake-hit areas, told reporters: "Meeting the hero people of Kermanshah was always one of my dreams, but I did not want it to be in a situation where people are sad and suffering today. We hope that we will be able to serve dear people of this land in good days, opening plans and projects for the people who have always been a good border guard for our dear country, Iran".

The president expressed condolences to families who lost their loved ones in this earthquake and wished health for those injured, saying: "This was a pain for all Iranians. Representing the nation of Iran, I offer my condolences to the people of Kermanshah, and tell them that all of us are beside Kermanshah".

Expressing that "there is no Iranian who is not thinking about the people of Kermanshah today", he said: "All of those who lost relatives and family members, and those who are hospitalised and lost their homes should work together to solve all these problems".

Thanking the Iranian people for their sympathy and assistance, Dr Rouhani said: "I feel obliged to appreciate the entire Iranian nation, including the government, the armed forces, including army, IRGC and Basij, Red Crescent Society, relief agencies, Housing Foundation, and the Ministries of Health, Interior, Roads and Urban Development, Energy and all those who are working these days to solve the problem of water, electricity and roads, to save people from the rubbles and send them to hospitals, as well as air support. Airplanes and helicopters made an extraordinary effort these days, and if these helicopters did not fly yesterday and today, the process of assistance would be much harder".

Dr Rouhani also thanked all neighbouring countries and all countries that expressed sympathy with the Iranian people in this disaster.

He also said that the Islamic Revolution Housing Foundation is responsible for the reconstruction process, adding: "I call on all governmental and military officials and all NGOs to help the Housing Foundation and do not do separate work, of course they can plan and work for providing schooling services".

Dr Rouhani pointed out that people should rebuild their homes and the government should provide them with loans, adding: "The government will accelerate this process so that it can be done in the shortest time possible, helping people who are affected by the earthquake".

The president added: "For the wounded, we pray to the Almighty for their swift recovery and patience for bereaved families".


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