Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday expressed deep condolences to Venezuela after powerful twin earthquakes killed at least 32 people and injured more than 700, stating that Pakistan stood in solidarity with those affected by the disaster. The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 in magnitude, struck near Venezuela’s capital Caracas on Wednesday, collapsing buildings, damaging critical infrastructure and prompting authorities to declare a state of emergency.
PM Sharif's Message of Solidarity
“Deeply saddened by the devastation and loss of life caused by the earthquakes in Venezuela,” Sharif wrote on X. “On behalf of the people of Pakistan, I convey our heartfelt condolences to the Government and people of Venezuela, especially the families of the victims. We pray for the injured and stand in solidarity with all those affected during this difficult and challenging time.”
Details of the Seismic Event
According to the United States Geological Survey, the 7.5-magnitude earthquake struck just 39 seconds after a 7.2-magnitude foreshock in what it described as a rare seismic doublet. The twin quakes triggered panic in Caracas, where residents fled into the streets. Authorities closed the country’s main international airport after it sustained serious structural damage, while officials reported multiple aftershocks and warned of continuing risks.
Impact and Rescue Efforts
Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodriguez, confirmed the initial death toll of 32 and injuries, adding that rescue teams were still assessing conditions in the hardest-hit coastal state of La Guaira. The earthquakes collapsed buildings and damaged critical infrastructure, leading to a state of emergency. Rescue workers were seen evacuating injured persons from collapsed buildings in Caracas, as reported by AFP.
