Federal Government Extends Condolences to China Following Landslide
The federal government has conveyed its condolences to Chinese President Xi Jinping and the citizens of China in the wake of a severe landslide in Gansu province that resulted in the tragic loss of at least 21 lives.
Solidarity with China Amid Ongoing Rescue Efforts
In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, Kimyebi Ebienfa, spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized Nigeria’s solidarity with China as rescue and relief operations proceed in Tanchan County. This disaster, triggered by heavy rainfall, struck the mountainous region on July 7, burying homes and obstructing access to several communities, with farmers among the hardest affected.
Emergency Response and Community Impact
In response to the disaster, emergency response teams have been deployed to search for survivors, evacuate residents, and deliver vital assistance to the impacted areas. Ebienfa expressed Nigeria’s shared grief over this incident, stating that the nation mourns the loss of lives and recognizes the sacrifices made during rescue operations.
Expression of Sympathy for Victims
“Nigeria grieves for those whose lives were lost in this calamity, as well as for others who may have perished during the rescue efforts,” the statement highlighted. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of those affected, including those who have lost loved ones or property in this unfortunate event,” it continued.
Acknowledgment of Swift Response by Chinese Authorities
Ebienfa commended Chinese officials for their prompt action in managing the crisis. “Nigeria appreciates the rapid response of the Chinese authorities and rescue teams in their efforts to save lives and support affected families,” the statement noted.
Long-standing Bilateral Relations and Cooperation
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs underscored that this tragedy unfolds against the backdrop of Nigeria and China’s enduring bilateral relationship, highlighting that China serves as Nigeria’s largest trading partner and a significant investor in key infrastructure projects, including railways, airports, highways, and power generation initiatives. The two nations continue to strengthen cooperation in various fields such as trade, investment, security, agriculture, technology, and human capital development within their comprehensive strategic partnership.
Support for China During Crisis
Ebienfa reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering support for China during these challenging times. “Nigeria and China maintain a strategic partnership rooted in mutual respect, friendship, and cooperation. We stand with China during this difficult period and are confident in the resilience of the Chinese people and government as they strive for recovery and restoration,” he stated, while also extending prayers for the victims and their families. He added, “I pray for the souls lost, the swift recovery of the injured, and fortitude for those who are grieving.”
Continuing Challenges Amid Natural Disasters
This landslide is the latest in a series of weather-related calamities impacting China’s mountainous regions during the rainy season. Despite advancements in early warning systems and disaster remediation frameworks, authorities are still contending with the effects of extreme weather on vulnerable populations and critical infrastructure.
