Earthquake Tragedy In New Zealand
- February 22nd, 2011
- Posted by EUEditor
As the number of persons killed in the earthquake at Christchurch rose to well over 65, with others still trapped inside some 25 ruined buildings, sympathy and offers of help flowed in from afar.
The following is a message of condolence from President Jose Manuel Barroso (picture, below), at the European Commission in Brussels, to the New Zealand Prime Minister, John Key:
“The news and images of the terrible earthquake that has just hit New Zealand, particularly the city of Christchurch, have filled me with dismay and sadness.
“For the second time in less than a year, your country has been tragically struck by natural disaster.
“Our thoughts are with the families of the victims and with the men and women struggling to save those still entrapped in the rubble.
“On behalf of the European Union and of its citizens, and on my own behalf, allow me to offer you and all your people our heartfelt condolences.
“Rest assured that the European Union stands ready to provide assistance if needed and to work with your Government to give relief to the affected communities.”
By Wednesday morning in Australia and New Zealand, the relief effort was concentrated on getting out people still trapped in rubble, some using text messages to tell where they were.
Seven hundred members of rescue teams were in place, several from six other countries including Australia, Japan and the United States, and emergency organisations belonging to the Australian States and Territories were sending reinforcements.
Reference
J M Barroso, European Commission, Brussels, “Message of condolence …â€, MEMO/11/105, 22.2.11.