IMF stands ready to help quake-hit Afghanistan & Pakistan: Lagarde

The death toll in rocked Pakistan rose to 250. In Afghanistan at least 115 people were confirmed dead

The IMF has offered its help to Afghanistan and Pakistan to deal with their recovery and reconstruction efforts in the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that hit the two nations this week, killing over 300 people.

"I would like to offer my deepest condolences to the people affected by the earthquake that has tragically struck the northern regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan, and in particular to the families of the victims," the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Managing Director, Christine Lagarde said.

"The immediate concern is to provide as much relief as possible to these areas, and to ensure the safety and well-being of the survivors of this tragedy," she said.

"The IMF will continue to support Afghanistan and Pakistan and stands ready to help them respond to this tragic event," Lagarde said.

The death toll in the powerful 7.5 magnitude earthquake that rocked Pakistan rose to 250 yesterday with more than 1,600 people injured.

In Afghanistan officials said at least 115 people were confirmed dead and hundreds more injured.