Timor-Leste Government expresses its solidarity with Turkey and Syria
Presidency of the Council of Ministers
Eighth Constitutional Government
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February 7th 2023
Press Release
Timor-Leste Government expresses its solidarity with Turkey and Syria
On behalf of the people of Timor-Leste, the Government extends its condolences to the families and friends of the victims of the massive earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.8 on the Richter scale, which occurred yesterday, February 6th, 2023, in south-eastern Turkey and caused widespread destruction in the country and neighbouring Syria. It also expresses its solidarity with the governments and peoples of Turkey and Syria, facing the effects of this catastrophe.
According to the latest figures, there are more than 3,800 confirmed dead in the two countries, with experts admitting that the total number could be much higher. In addition, several thousand people were injured, and more than 5,000 buildings collapsed.
Since the main quake, which happened shortly after four in the morning, 33 kilometres from the provincial capital of Gaziantep, hundreds of aftershocks have been reported in south-eastern Turkey.
The Government of Timor-Leste praises the work of the authorities of the affected countries in their search and rescue efforts under challenging conditions.
The Spokesperson of the 8th Constitutional Government, Minister Fidelis Magalhães, said that “our feelings go out to the families who have lost loved ones and we salute those who remain determined to search for survivors and support the populations affected by this catastrophe”. “In these difficult days, Timor-Leste stands in solidarity with the Governments and peoples of Turkey and Syria in the challenges that lie ahead for all in the coming weeks and months.” ENDS
