President Halimah offers condolences to Mexican President Pena Nieto over deadly earthquake

Rescuers, firefighters, policemen, soldiers and volunteers remove rubble and debris from a flattened building in search of survivors after a powerful quake in Mexico City on Sept 19, 2017. PHOTO: AFP

SINGAPORE - President Halimah Yacob has written to her Mexican counterpart, Mr Enrique Pena Nieto, to offer condolences over the earthquake that struck the country on Tuesday (Sept 19).

"I was deeply saddened by the loss of lives and devastation caused by the earthquake that struck Mexico on Sept 19, 2017, so soon after the earlier earthquake on Sept 7," wrote Madam Halimah.

On behalf of the people of Singapore, she expressed sympathy and offered condolences to the families of the victims. "Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time," she wrote.

"I am confident that the people of Mexico will respond to this calamity with strength and courage. I wish that Mexico will overcome the consequences of this tragic event in the soonest possible time," wrote President Halimah.

In a statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) said it had reached out to e-registered Singaporeans in Mexico City and the surrounding areas to ascertain their safety. "Thus far, there are no reports of Singaporeans injured by the earthquake," the MFA statement said.

Singaporeans in the affected areas have been advised to take the necessary precautions for their personal safety, heed the instructions of the local authorities, and closely monitor the local news. The MFA also asked them to stay in touch with family and friends.

Those in need of consular assistance were directed to contact the 24-hour MFA Duty Office at +65 6379 8800/8855.

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