In a display of solidarity and generosity, the China- Pakistan Youth Exchange Community (CPYEC) recently distributed food packages to 300 flood-affected families, which are expected to benefit more than 1,800 people in Bahawalnagar and surrounding disaster areas. The heart- warming drive was organized in collaboration with the Beijing One Heart Sphere Charity Foundation, according to a Gwadar Pro's report. CPYEC is a non-profit organization that aims to promote cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the youth of China and Pakistan. The organization has been actively involved in various social and humanitarian initiatives in Pakistan, including disaster relief efforts. Following the outbreak of the Century Flood in Pakistan in August 2022, another major flood occurred in Bahawalnagar and other areas of Pakistan in May 2023, destroying a large number of dams and villages, killing 196 people, injuring thousands, and displacing more than 16,627 people. 

Official figures show that 153,231 acres of unharvested land have been destroyed. The floods also affected 90 villages along the riverbank, causing huge casualties and economic losses, and posing a huge challenge for post-flood reconstruction in 2023. The CPYEC drive is aimed at providing much- needed relief for flood victims, many of whom are struggling to make ends meet. Food items donated by CPYEC include rice, flour, sugar, cooking oil, etc. The CPYEC team distributed food items among the flood victims who expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the support. Ma Bin, chairman of CPYEC, called on more caring groups and individuals to support and help the flood victims get back on their feet.  He said that "we will continue to maintain contact and cooperation with local authorities and agencies to assist the affected people as much as possible."

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China