Muzaffarabad, Oct 08th, 2009 (WAM): The Prime Minister of Pakistan Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani, accompanied by Governor of Kashmir on the Pakistani side Raja Zulkarnain Khan and Chief Minister Sardar Mohammad Yaqub Khan, inaugurated today the Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Hospital in Muzaffarabad.
The plaque bearing the image of President His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan was unveiled indicating the formal commissioning of the hospital. The opening coincided with the day of the disastrous earthquake four years ago on October 8. Opening ceremony was attended by Ali Saif Awani, UAE Ambassador in Islamabad, Brigadier Shakeel Afridi Hospital's Director General, Qamar Zaman Kaira Minister of Information and senior officials. The prime minister told reporters after a tour of the hospital that this great achievement reflects the depth of the brotherly relations between the two countries. He expressed his appreciation to President HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and said that this valuable gift will remain stuck in the memory of people as it reflects the keenness of His Highness to help residents in areas affected by the earthquake. He added that he could see the best facilities and units equipped with the latest medical machinery and instruments. He said the hospital which cost USD 28 million includes the main building and annex blocks as well as residential complex for doctors and nursing staff. The project was designed, constructed and equipped by the Department of Municipal Affairs-Abu Dhabi Municipality under the supervision of Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan Charity Foundation. The hospital is built in accordance with international standards suitable for areas prone to earthquakes and natural disasters. The hospital is spread over an area of 70,000sq metres and is spacious enough to accommodate 250 beds. The two-storied facility is equipped with the latest medical equipments and houses Outpatient clinics and specialized sections.Copyright Emirates News Agency (WAM) 2009.
