ANKARA: The Turkish foreign minister has offered assistance to Pakistan after a 5.9 magnitude earthquake hit Balochistan, killing at least 23 people.
According to diplomatic sources, Mevlut Cavusoglu spoke to his Pakistan counterpart, Shah Mehmood Qureshi, and conveyed his condolences over the loss of lives.
During the conversation, Cavusoglu also stated that Ankara stands ready to provide every kind of assistance to Islamabad.
The quake was centred about 14 kilometres north-northeast of Harnai. The location is about 100 kilometres from Quetta.
According to National Disaster Management Authority, a rescue and relief operation is underway. Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal said people were being evacuated by government departments along with support by army and security forces.
CONDOLENCE
Turkey also extended condolences over the loss of lives in the earthquake.
“We received the news with deep sorrow that an earthquake of 5.9 magnitude, which occurred in the Balochistan Province of Pakistan claimed lives, left many injured and caused damage to property,” its Foreign Ministry said in a statement.
“We extend our condolences foremost to the families of those who lost their lives, as well as to friendly Government and brotherly nation of Pakistan; wish [a] swift recovery to the injured and reiterate that, as always, Turkey stands ready to provide every kind of assistance,” the statement added.
