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After strong quake hits southern China, Ban says UN ready to assist in any relief effort

Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
UN Photo (file photo)
Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.

After strong quake hits southern China, Ban says UN ready to assist in any relief effort

Saddened by the loss of life, the damage to homes and infrastructure in southern China as a result of the earthquake that struck Yunnan province today, Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon pledged that the United Nations stands ready to help respond to any humanitarian needs created by the disaster.

A statement issued by his spokesperson in New York states that Mr. Ban is saddened by the loss of life, and the damage to homes and infrastructure in southern China as a result of the earthquake that struck Wenping in Yunnan province today.

According to news reports, the strong quake killed hundreds of people, toppled thousands of homes on Sunday, and left more than 1,500 people injured.

“He offers his condolences to the Chinese Government and the families of those killed, and his deepest sympathies to those who were injured or otherwise affected in this disaster,” the statement adds.

It goes on to say that the United Nations stands ready to lend its assistance to efforts to respond to humanitarian needs created by the disaster and to mobilize any international support needed.