The Federal Government has expressed condolences to the government and people of the People’s Republic of China following the deadly landslide that struck Tanchang County in Gansu Province on Tuesday, claiming at least 21 lives.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Nigeria mourns the victims of the disaster and extends its sympathies to families who lost loved ones, as well as those injured or affected by the incident.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased, the injured, and all those who have lost loved ones or property in this unfortunate incident,” the ministry stated.
The Federal Government also commended the swift response of the Chinese authorities and emergency rescue teams for their efforts to save lives and provide relief to affected communities.
Reaffirming the strong bilateral ties between both countries, the ministry said Nigeria stands in solidarity with China during the difficult period and expressed confidence in the country’s ability to recover from the disaster.
“Nigeria and China share a long-standing strategic partnership built on mutual respect, friendship, and cooperation. We pray for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed, the speedy recovery of the injured, and strength and comfort for the bereaved families,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, Chinese state media reported on Wednesday that the death toll from the landslide in Gansu Province had risen to 21 after the disaster buried 33 people in Rencang village, Dangchang County.
According to the state-run Xinhua News Agency, rescue operations, which began shortly after the landslide occurred at about 6:56 a.m. on Tuesday, have been concluded.
Chinese authorities have allocated 30 million yuan (about $4.4 million) for reconstruction efforts in the affected area.
China experiences frequent natural disasters, particularly during the summer months when heavy rainfall and flooding affect some regions, while others endure extreme heat. On the same day as the Gansu landslide, severe storms and torrential rains in southern and central China reportedly killed about 17 people and left hundreds injured.
