European leaders extend condolences, assistance to Morocco after deadly earthquake

By Esra Tekin

ISTANBUL (AA) – European leaders on Saturday condoled with Morocco following an overnight earthquake in the North African country that killed more than 600 people.

French President Macron expressed his condolences, saying: "We are all devastated after the terrible earthquake in Morocco. France stands ready to help with first aid."

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz described the tremor as "bad news," tweeting that in these "difficult hours, our thoughts are with the victims of the devastating earthquake. Our sympathy goes to all those affected by this natural disaster."

“My thoughts are with the families of the victims, the injured to whom I wish a speedy recovery, and the first responders who are doing an admirable job,” said Ursula Von der Leyen, president of the European Commission on X account, formerly known as Twitter.

The president of European Council Charles Michel, meanwhile, expressed the EU’s readiness to support Morocco “during these difficult times.”

“My thoughts are with everyone affected by this tragedy and with the rescuers involved in the search operation.,” he said.

President of European Parliament Roberta Metsola and EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell Fontelles also shared messages of support.

The strong earthquake struck central Morocco just after 11. p.m. local time (22:11 GMT) on Friday, killing at least 632 people, according to the country's Interior Ministry.

The epicenter was 71km (44 miles) south-west of Marrakesh, at a depth of 18.5 km, the USGS said.