Chinese Ambassador Li Minggang on Wednesday extended heartfelt condolences to the families of Chinese nationals who tragically lost their lives in the recent earthquake in Vanuatu.
Visiting the grieving families, Ambassador Li expressed deep sympathy and assured them of the embassy’s unwavering support during this challenging time. “We stand with you in solidarity and will provide all necessary assistance to help you through this difficult period,” he affirmed.
The devastating 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu on December 17, resulting in at least 14 fatalities and leaving over 200 people injured. Just days later, on December 22, a subsequent 6.1-magnitude quake further compounded the crisis, causing widespread damage to infrastructure across the island nation.
In response to the disaster, China dispatched a team of four technical specialists to Vanuatu to aid in recovery efforts. According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, the team is tasked with conducting scientific examinations of building structures in severely affected areas, performing safety assessments, and investigating potential secondary disasters.
Ambassador Li emphasized the importance of swift action, noting that the embassy has urged the Vanuatu government and relevant authorities to implement effective measures for post-disaster arrangements. “Community resilience and recovery are paramount, and we are committed to collaborating closely with Vanuatu to restore normalcy,” he stated.
The solidarity shown by China underscores the deepening ties between the two nations and highlights the importance of international cooperation in the face of natural disasters.
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Chinese Ambassador visits families of earthquake victims in Vanuatu
cgtn.com
