Annan saddened by death and destruction caused by avalanches in Jammu and Kashmir

United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan today voiced his sadness at the loss of life and damage to property in Jammu and Kashmir caused by avalanches and heavy snows over the past two weeks.

Through a statement issued by his spokesman, the Secretary-General "extends his deepest condolences to the people of Jammu and Kashmir, especially to the families of the hundreds who have been killed and injured because of the heavy snowfall."

Heavy snow in the area this month has also killed many people in Afghanistan, Pakistan and Tajikistan.