Prince Albert II has expressed his profound sympathy and solidarity with the people of Colombia following the devastating earthquake that struck the west of the country on Monday, August 10, leaving more than 180 people dead and thousands injured…
In a message issued by the Prince’s Palace, the Sovereign said that he and Princess Charlene had learned of the disaster “with profound emotion”. Prince Albert added that his family and the Monegasque population joined him in offering their sincerest condolences to the Colombian people, with particular thoughts for bereaved families and those injured.
The magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck on Monday morning, causing widespread destruction across western Colombia. Cali and Pereira are among the worst-affected cities, while almost 2,600 people have been reported injured and close to 200 remain missing. More than 1,100 homes have been destroyed and thousands more damaged, with rescue teams continuing to search collapsed buildings for survivors.
The disaster comes just six weeks after a double earthquake struck neighbouring Venezuela, a connection also acknowledged in the Prince’s message.
International assistance is now being mobilised as Colombia continues to experience aftershocks. Amid the unfolding tragedy, Prince Albert’s words add Monaco’s voice to the international expressions of compassion and support for those affected.
Image: BBC NEWS