Pakistan stands with Venezuela after deadly earthquakes
Pakistan on Thursday expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with Venezuela after two powerful earthquakes caused widespread destruction and loss of life in the South American country. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Asif Ali Zardari extended their condolences to the Venezuelan government and people as rescue teams continued their efforts to find survivors in the affected areas.
According to reports, two strong earthquakes measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude struck Venezuela on Wednesday. At least 32 people were killed and hundreds were injured, while authorities continued search and rescue operations amid extensive destruction.
In a statement shared on X, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif offered heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims.
“On behalf of the people of Pakistan, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Venezuela, especially the families of the victims,” the prime minister said. He also prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured and reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with all those affected by the disaster.
President Asif Ali Zardari also expressed deep grief over the loss of life and destruction caused by the earthquakes. In a statement issued by the Presidency on X, he conveyed sympathy to the bereaved families and the people of Venezuela. The president said the people of Pakistan shared the grief of the Venezuelan nation and stood with them during this difficult time. He prayed for the recovery of the injured and wished strength and resilience to everyone affected.
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The earthquakes caused severe damage in and around the Venezuelan capital, Caracas, where several buildings reportedly collapsed, and rescue teams continued searching for people trapped beneath the rubble.
President Zardari expressed hope that the Venezuelan people would overcome the tragedy with courage and determination and that relief efforts would provide timely assistance to those in need. Meanwhile, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) warned that the final death toll could rise significantly. Predictive models suggest casualties could reach into the thousands if the full extent of the devastation is confirmed.
Venezuelan Interim President Delcy Rodriguez said the initial casualty figures did not include victims from La Guaira state, one of the worst-hit areas near Caracas. She said emergency teams were carrying out intensive operations to locate survivors trapped beneath collapsed structures.
