The Chief Executive, Mr Chui Sai On, sent a letter to the Central People’s Government today to express his concern over the earthquake in Ludian County, Yunnan, and indicated that the Macao Special Administrative Region will make its best efforts to provide disaster relief support.

The full text of his letter is as follows:

“A 6.5-magnitude earthquake occurred in Ludian County, Zhaotong, Yunnan yesterday, causing serious casualties and property damage for local people. It is a heartbreaking disaster that touches the hearts of Macao people. On behalf of the Macao SAR Government and all Macao residents, I solemnly express our mourning for the fatalities and our deepest condolences to their families, along with our thoughts for those injured in this disaster.

“It is noted that the situation of the affected areas is critical due to the high magnitude of this shallow earthquake, the high population density, and the low earthquake-resistance of the buildings. The Central People’s Government is currently taking the lead in fully mobilising rescue operations. The Macao SAR will make its best efforts to render assistance in emergency rescue and other disaster relief work, with the hope of enabling victims to return home and resume their normal lives as soon as possible.”