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Aga Khan donates to Portugal fire victims

Saturday June 24 2017
fire

More than 60 people died in a forest fire in Portugal last week. PHOTO | AFP

His Highness the Aga Khan has announced a contribution of more than half a million dollars towards the support of victims of the deadly forest fire in Pedrógão Grande in central Portugal, which left more than 60 people dead and several more injured.

“My heartfelt condolences go to the families of those who have lost their lives in this tragic fire. We wish to assure President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, and the people of Portugal, of our unconditional support at this very trying time,” the Aga Khan said, after speaking directly with President Rebelo de Sousa to offer his sympathy and support.

The $558,724 contribution from the Ismaili Imamat — the office of His Highness the Aga Khan — will be channelled through the Ministry of Solidarity. 

Portugal’s worst forest fire broke out on Saturday in the central municipality of Pedrógão Grande before spreading to neighbouring areas including Góis, Pampilhosa da Serra and Arganil. Many of those who died were killed in their cars as they tried to flee the flames, which also injured more than 250 people.

The fund, together with others raised by local and international organisations in response to the crisis, will aid victims affected by the tragic fire, which was one of the worst such disasters in Portugal’s recent history.  

A formal Seat of the Ismaili Imamat was established in Portugal on June 3, 2015, following the signing of a landmark agreement with the Republic of Portugal. The Agreement came into effect after it was approved by Portugal’s parliament and ratified by the president

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