After Earthquakes in Venezuela, Chinese President Offers Aid for “Reconstruction”

Chinese President Xi Jinping said Friday that his country is willing to provide aid to Venezuela for the “reconstruction” phase following the double earthquake that struck the north of the country on Wednesday, according to official media reports.  The announcement comes amid the humanitarian emergency caused by the earthquakes, which have left serious material damage and a high number of victims. 

The Red Cross is Asking the International Community for $61 Mmillion to help Venezuela. 

Message of Condolence to Delcy Rodríguez

According to the state news agency Xinhua, Xi Jinping sent a message of condolence to Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, following the tragedy that has impacted the South American country.  The Chinese leader expressed solidarity with the affected families and reaffirmed his government’s willingness to support recovery efforts. 

Two Chinese Citizens Among the Victims

Authorities also confirmed that two Chinese citizens are among the fatalities of the disaster.  The earthquakes, which occurred on Wednesday, have so far left at least 235 dead, according to the official tally provided by Venezuelan authorities.

Crisis in Venezuela After the Earthquake: International Support Underway

The tragedy has mobilized several countries and international organizations, while rescue and damage assessment efforts continue in the most affected areas.  China’s announcement adds to the first international cooperation efforts aimed at addressing the emergency and planning the country’s reconstruction after the natural disaster.  Many internet users reported receiving alerts on their smartphones moments before the earthquakes in Venezuela, thanks to a Google detection system. Both Google’s Android and Apple’s iOS offer the option to display official alerts issued by authorities in case of emergencies, such as earthquakes.