President Tony Tan, PM Lee Hsien Loong send condolences after China quake

Earthquake victims sit amid the debris of collapsed houses in Ludian county in Zhaotong, south-west China's Yunnan province on August 4, 2014. President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong have sent messages of condolences to their C
Earthquake victims sit amid the debris of collapsed houses in Ludian county in Zhaotong, south-west China's Yunnan province on August 4, 2014. President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong have sent messages of condolences to their Chinese counterparts following Sunday's devastating earthquake in Yunnan province which has killed hundreds of people. -- PHOTO: AFP

SINGAPORE - President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong have sent messages of condolences to their Chinese counterparts following Sunday's devastating earthquake in Yunnan province which has killed hundreds of people.

In his message to Mr Xi Jinping, President Tan expressed sadness at the loss of lives and destruction of property following the quake, which measured 6.1 on the richter scale.

"On behalf of the people of Singapore, I extend our deepest condolences to the families who lost their loved ones, and our heartfelt sympathies to those injured and who lost their homes in this disaster," Mr Tan said.

He also expressed confidence that the people of Yunnan would carry through with fortitude and determination through this difficult time under the leadership of Mr Xi.

Prime Minister Lee, in his message to Mr Li Keqiang, also said he was saddened by the loss of lives and damage caused by Sunday's quake which has left nearly 400 people dead and injured thousands more.

"Singapore stands ready to assist those affected by this tragedy," Mr Lee said.

"Our thoughts are with the victims and their families during this difficult time," he added.

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