President Abdulla Yameen Abdul Gayoom has sent a message of sympathy to President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China, following the devastating earthquake that hit China’s Yunnan province on Sunday.

The President’s message reads as follows:

“It was with deep shock and distress that I heard the news of the earthquake that hit Yunnan province causing the loss of hundreds of lives and injury to many more, as well as causing extensive damage to property and infrastructure.

At this time of national distress and mourning, the Government and the people of the Maldives join me in conveying our profound sympathy to you, the Government and the friendly people of China, and in particular, to those who are directly affected by the calamity.

Please also convey our sincere condolences to the members of the bereaved families.”