China to provide emergency humanitarian aid to Venezuela

BEIJING, June 26 -- The Chinese government and the Red Cross Society of China will provide emergency humanitarian aid to Venezuela respectively, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun told a regular press briefing on Friday.

A pair of powerful earthquakes struck Venezuela on Wednesday, killing at least 235 people and leaving hundreds trapped under rubble.

Noting that the quakes have caused heavy casualties and property losses, Guo said the Chinese government has extended its sympathies to the Venezuelan government and people. The Venezuelan government has thanked China for its support, he added.

Guo emphasized that China stands ready to provide further support to Venezuela as the situation unfolds.

According to verified information, two Chinese citizens have so far sadly lost their lives in the earthquakes, said the spokesperson, adding that the Chinese embassy in Venezuela is making every effort to check on the safety of Chinese nationals in the country and will provide all necessary assistance.

Guo also reminded Chinese citizens in Venezuela to stay vigilant against secondary disasters caused by the earthquakes.