Gul assures Pakistan's Zardari of post-disaster support

President Abdullah Gul spoke with his Pakistani counterpart Asif Ali Zardari on the phone on Wednesday to discuss Turkey's efforts to help Pakistan in the aftermath of devastating floods. During the conversation, Gul asked Zardari what more could be done for Pakistan, Gul's office said in a statement. Zardari said he appreciates the assistance of the Turkish people and state and that Pakistan would be pleased to see this support continue. The Pakistani president also said Turkey has always supported and helped his country in its hours of need, according to the Pakistani media. Since late July flooding has killed more than 1,600 Pakistanis and left 20 million homeless. To date Turkey has sent $10 million in financial aid and 244 tons of relief support, including vaccines and other medical supplies. Turkey has also sent a 42-member medical team, two fully equipped mobile hospitals, an ambulance and a truck for medical rescue efforts. Turkey's Red Crescent Society (Kizilay) is also poised to build 500 prefab houses and larger tents that will provide long-term protection for people affected by the floods.