A delegation of Islamic Relief staff met with the Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Mr Sardar Sakandar Hyat Khan, on the 18th of June 2002. The Prime Minister expressed his sincere appreciation of the work that Islamic Relief has been carrying out in the area since 1998.

Mr Affan Cheema, Head of Programmes for IR Pakistan, spoke to Mr Khan about the history of Islamic Relief, and the projects IR operates throughout the world. He talked in detail about the work that Islamic Relief is currently carrying out in Pakistan-administered Kashmir*, along the Line of Control (LoC).

Mr Cheema presented the 'Needs Assessment and Disaster Preparedness Plan' to the Prime Minister, explaining how Islamic Relief had coordinated meetings with International NGOs, the community and the AJK Government in order to prepare the plan.

Mr Ali Sherazi, Programme Manager, then spoke about the work that has been carried out as part of the Disaster Preparedness Programme, such as establishing fully equipped Emergency Medical Centres, constructing community bunkers, and training local people in Emergency First Aid.

The Prime Minister expressed his appreciation of Islamic Relief's work in Kashmir, especially as many NGOs avoided working in the area because of the security situation and difficult terrain. He went on to explain that the Government had limited resources and were unable to provide relief for the entire population.

The Prime Minister told the delegation that he appreciated Islamic Relief's work in Neelum Valley and would like to see similar work carried out in other areas of Kashmir. He assured them that the Kashmir government would offer its help and full cooperation in our work.

The Prime Minister was invited to visit Islamic Relief's field office and programmes in Neelum Valley

*Please note all references to Kashmir are to Pakistan-administered Kashmir unless stated otherwise