China is conducting swift relief and rescue operations following a magnitude-6.8 earthquake that struck the Xizang Autonomous Region. The quake hit Dingri County in the city of Xigaze, prompting immediate action from the government and officials.
At a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun stated that President Xi Jinping has ordered all-out efforts to save lives, minimize casualties, prevent secondary disasters, and effectively handle the aftermath. Premier Li Qiang also urged maximum efforts to organize rescue operations.
Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has led a team to the affected area to guide the ongoing rescue and relief efforts. The Chinese government has launched a level-II emergency response, and the first batch of disaster relief materials dispatched by central authorities has arrived in the quake-hit region.
“All road sections damaged by the earthquake in Dingri County have been reopened,” Guo reported. He added that power supply and communication signals have been restored to the county and nearby townships and villages.
Expressing confidence in the resilience of the affected communities, Guo said, “It is believed the people in the disaster-stricken area will overcome the disaster and rebuild their homes.”
Global support has poured in, with leaders from 23 countries, including Russia, Pakistan, Nepal, and Japan, sending condolences as of 11 a.m. on Wednesday. International organizations such as the United Nations and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization also expressed their sympathies.
“China expresses its sincere gratitude for this,” Guo said, acknowledging the international solidarity.
Reference(s):
Relief, rescue work after Xizang quake progressing in orderly manner
cgtn.com
