Wednesday, 6 August 2014 01:27
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President Mahinda Rajapaksa on Monday mourned the loss of lives and destruction due to the devastating earthquake that struck in Yunnan Province, China on Sunday.
In a condolence message to Chinese President Xi Jinping, the Sri Lankan leader said the thoughts and prayers of the people of Sri Lanka are with the people of China and offered medical assistance to the people of China as a gesture of solidarity and goodwill.
“Given the extensive number of those injured, as a gesture of solidarity and goodwill, the Government of Sri Lanka stands ready to extend medical assistance to the people of China,” President Rajapaksa said in his message.
At least 391 people have been killed, and 1,891 injured by the 6.1-magnitude earthquake that struck in the Yunnan province, southwestern China on Sunday afternoon.
Full text of President Rajapaksa’s message:
Excellency,
It is with a deep sense of shock and sadness that I learnt of the devastating earthquake that struck in Yunnan Province, China yesterday resulting in a large number of deaths and massive destruction of property.
The Government and People of Sri Lanka join me in conveying deepest condolences and sympathies to members of the bereaved families and all those whose lives have been affected by this devastating natural disaster. The thoughts and prayers of the people of Sri Lanka are with the people of China particularly those who have been injured, during this difficult time.
Given the extensive number of those injured, as a gesture of solidarity and goodwill, the Government of Sri Lanka stands ready to extend medical assistance to the people of China.
Under your able leadership, I am confident that the Chinese people would be able to overcome the challenges, with their innate fortitude and courage.
Please accept, Excellency, the assurances of my highest consideration.
Mahinda Rajapaksa