Chinese President Xi Jinping (File photo)
BEIJING – Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday extended condolences to his Philippine counterpart, Rodrigo Duterte, over Typhoon Rai (local name Odette) that battered the Philippines last week.
Xi said he was shocked to learn that the Philippines was hit by the typhoon that caused heavy casualties and property losses.
On behalf of the Chinese government and people as well as in his own name, Xi expressed deep condolences to the victims of the disaster and extended sincere sympathies to the bereaved families and the injured.
China is ready to provide assistance to the Philippine side within its capacity, Xi said, adding he believes that the people in the disaster areas will surely defeat the disaster and rebuild their homes.
The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) reported that as of Tuesday morning, the casualty count from the typhoon has climbed to 156, with 37 missing and 275 injured. (Xinhua)
