UN ready to assist in earthquake disaster, Annan assures China

The United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan, today assured the Government of China that the UN stands ready to assist in responding to the needs created by the powerful earthquake in the Xinjiang region.

Mr. Annan was saddened to learn of the loss of life and destruction that resulted from the earthquake, his spokesman noted in a statement issued today.

In the statement, the Secretary General also conveyed his heartfelt sympathy to the people and Government of China as they cope with their losses.