Governments across the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) have expressed sympathy with the government and people of Venezuela following two devastating earthquakes that rocked the South American nation late Wednesday.
On Thursday, the Prime Minister of St Lucia, Philip J. Pierre in a statment, expressed profound sorrow at the reports of significant casualties, injuries, and destruction resulting from this natural disaster.
‘At this difficult time, the people of Saint Lucia stand in solidarity with the people of Venezuela as they mourn the lives lost, care for the injured, and begin the challenging process of recovery and rebuilding. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones, those who have been displaced, and all communities affected by this tragedy.’
The Prime Minister also conveyed Saint Lucia’s support to the Venezuelan authorities and emergency responders who continue to work tirelessly to assist affected communities and provide relief to those in need.
Meanwhile – The Government of Trinidad and Tobago has expressed solidarity with Venezuela and has offered assistance .
In a media release issued late Wednesday , the Ministry of Foreign and CARICOM Affairs said Trinidad and Tobago stood with the Government and people of Venezuela in the aftermath of the seismic event, which triggered widespread concern across the region.
‘The Government of Trinidad and Tobago stands prepared to provide any requested support and assistance to the Venezuelan authorities, where possible,’ the ministry said.
The ministry said it remained mindful of the Caribbean region’s vulnerability to natural disasters and shared the anxiety of Venezuelans as authorities assessed the impact of the earthquake and began recovery efforts.
It also confirmed that Trinidad and Tobago’s diplomatic mission in Caracas was not significantly affected and that officials were continuing to monitor developments closely.
The statement came as reports emerged of significant damage in Venezuela following two powerful earthquakes that struck west of Caracas on Wednesday.
According to the United States Geological Survey (USGS), a magnitude 7.2 earthquake was followed less than a minute later by a magnitude 7.5 tremor approximately 160 kilometres west of here.
On Thursday, officials said the death toll had risen to 164 and is expected to climb.