Timor-Leste expresses solidarity with Vanuatu after devastating earthquake
Presidency of the Council of Ministers
Spokesperson of the Government of Timor-Leste
Ninth Constitutional Government
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Press Release
December 19th, 2024
Timor-Leste expresses solidarity with Vanuatu after devastating earthquake
The Government of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste expresses its deep solidarity with the people and Government of Vanuatu following the 7.3 magnitude earthquake that ravaged the country on December 17th, 2024. This disaster caused tragic loss of life, injuries to hundreds of people and significant damage to infrastructure.
The Prime Minister, Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão, has sent a letter to his Vanuatu counterpart, Charlot Salwai, to express his “heartfelt condolences to the people of Vanuatu in the wake of the devastating earthquakes that have ravaged your country” and to express Timor-Leste's support in this time of need.
“This tragic loss of life from the earthquakes is heartbreaking and has left us with sorrow. The Timorese people feel a great sense of connection and solidarity with the Ni-Vanuatu. Your people have always supported us, including during the dark days of the occupation of our country. At this time, we are most concerned with the situation facing the Ni-Vanuatu given the widespread damage that has been caused”.
In the letter, the Head of Government also wished his counterpart “and the people of Vanuatu all the strength and resilience that is needed to overcome this disaster” and expressed confidence in the Vanuatu Government's leadership to face the challenges of reconstruction: “While the recovery efforts will be very difficult, I have confidence that with your leadership Vanuatu will be able to respond to the disaster and start the rebuilding process”.
On behalf of the Government and People of Timor-Leste, the Spokesperson for the 9th Constitutional Government, Minister Agio Pereira, expressed “deep sorrow for the tragic loss of human life and the enormous difficulties faced by the people of Vanuatu at this time of pain and hardship”. He added that “our thoughts are with the victims and their families, and we recognise the heroic efforts of the rescue teams and professionals who continue to support the communities affected by this disaster”.
