Messages of support pour in as Morocco grapples with aftermaths of deadly quake

By Ayse Irem Tiryaki, Nuri Aydın and Emre Aytekin

ANKARA / BEIJING (AA) – Messages of support continued to pour in Saturday from world leaders following a powerful earthquake that struck Morocco late Friday.

At least 1,037 people were killed and 1,204 others injured following the earthquake.

Fatalities from the magnitude 7.0 quake occurred in various regions, including Al Haouz and Marrakesh provinces, as well as the cities of Ouarzazate, Azilal, Chichaoua, and Taroudant, the country’s Interior Ministry said in a statement.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres released a message of condolence for those who lost their lives in the earthquake.

"The UN is ready to support the Moroccan government," a statement by the UN cited Guterres as saying.

UN Humanitarian Affairs Coordinator Martin Griffiths also expressed his “deep sadness,” saying: "We are ready to support."

- China

Chinese President Xi Jinping conveyed his condolences to King Mohammed VI in the wake of the earthquake.

On behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their loved ones and wished a speedy recovery to the injured.

- India

In a message delivered during the G-20 summit in the capital New Delhi, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his heartfelt condolences, saying India is ready to assist Morocco in its time of need.

"We hope for the swift recovery of all those who have been injured. The global community stands in solidarity with Morocco during these challenging circumstances, and we are prepared to offer any and all possible assistance," said Modi.

- South Korea

South Korean Foreign Minister Park Jin extended his condolences to the people of Morocco who were affected by the devastating earthquake.

"We stand in solidarity with you and hope for a swift recovery from the damage," Park said on his social media account.

- Pakistan

Pakistan also expressed sympathy with Morocco following the deadly quake.

"The people and government of Pakistan stand in solidarity with Morocco and express their heartfelt condolences for the tragic loss of lives in the earthquake," Pakistan’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement.