Operation Maitri: India fulfilled its duty as neighbour, says Sushma Swaraj

NEW DELHI: India fulfilled its duty as a neighbour and responsibility as a friend through 'Operation Maitri' after high-intensity earthquake hit Nepal, Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj today said.

"Nepal is not only a friendly country, but also our neighbour. In any emergency, first help always comes from a neighbour and then comes the relatives. I am thankful to the Prime Minister ( Narendra Modi) that he tried to follow the same emotion.

"The day disaster struck Nepal, within few hours, our first flight reached Nepal with relief and rescue (material) ... And through Operation Maitri, it has discharged its duty as a neighbour," Swaraj said.

She was speaking at a cultural programme organised to convey a compassionate message that the artists from India stand by Nepal in its trying time.

After a 7.9 earthquake hit Nepal on April 25, India rushed with food and rescue to help the calamity-struck country by launching 'Operation Maitri' rescuing people and providing relief material.

Union Minister for State for Home Kiren Rijiju said that the suffering Nepal is going through is also felt by India as both the countries are tied up by a cultural bond.