Xi extends condolences over mudslide disaster in Nepal

BEIJING -- President Xi Jinping on Friday sent a message of condolences to Nepali President Ram Chandra Poudel over a mudslide disaster that hit Nepal recently.

In his message, Xi noted that a severe mudslide disaster occurred recently at the Gyirong-Rasuwa border crossing between China and Nepal, causing heavy casualties, leaving people missing and resulting in property losses.

On behalf of the Chinese government and people, Xi expressed deep condolences to the victims and sincere sympathies to the bereaved families, the injured and people in the disaster-stricken areas.

Xi noted that China is making every effort to search for and rescue missing persons, relocate and resettle affected people, provide prompt medical treatment to the injured, minimize casualties and prevent secondary disasters.

China and Nepal, Xi said, are connected by mountains and rivers and share a common destiny, adding that China is ready to actively assist Nepal in its rescue efforts and provide support and assistance to the best of its capability.

Xi also expressed his belief that both peoples will be able to work together to overcome the disaster and rebuild their homes as soon as possible.

On the same day, Chinese Premier Li Qiang sent a message of condolences to Nepali Prime Minister Balendra Shah.