PRESS RELEASE

H.E. PRESIDENT TAUR MATAN RUAK SENDS CONDOLENCES TO EARTHQUAKE VICTIMS IN SICHUAN PROVINCE, CHINA

Dili, 24 April 2013: Following the earthquake in Sichuan province in China, last Saturday, in which thousands of people were injured and more than 190 perished, H.E. the President of the Republic, Taur Matan Ruak, sent condolences to China, expressing his sadness when he learned of the news. “I am extremely saddened to learn about the extensive loss of lives, hundreds of thousands of injuries and damages caused by the massive earthquake that struck in Sichuan Province of China last Saturday,” said President Taur Matan Ruak in his message.

In his statement, the Head of State stressed: “On behalf of the people of Timor-Leste, and in my own name, I would like to convey to Your Excellency, the government, and the people of China, particularly to the victims and members of the bereaved families, our deepest sympathy and profound condolences on the tragic loss of lives and destruction brought by this natural disaster.”

The Head of State finishes his message saying: “Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families. I wish them strength through this difficult time and God bless you.”