Venezuela quake toll tops 900, search intensifies for hundreds trapped

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The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced a US$150,000 humanitarian contribution to assist earthquake-stricken Venezuela, as Prime Minister Gaston Browne expressed the nation’s solidarity with the South American country following the devastating disaster.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Browne said Antigua and Barbuda was deeply saddened by the loss of life, injuries, and widespread destruction caused by the earthquakes that struck the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

“On behalf of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda, and on my own behalf, I extend our deepest condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and express our heartfelt sympathy to Interim President Delcy Rodríguez, the Government of Venezuela, and the entire Venezuelan people at this time of immense grief and hardship,” the Prime Minister said.

Browne noted that Antigua and Barbuda understands the devastating impact of natural disasters, recalling the country’s own experience when Hurricane Irma destroyed much of Barbuda in September 2017.

He highlighted Venezuela’s swift response during that crisis, when the Venezuelan government provided aircraft to evacuate the entire population of Barbuda to Antigua after the island became uninhabitable.

“That compassionate act of solidarity and good neighbourliness remains deeply etched in the memory of our nation. It is an expression of friendship that Antiguans and Barbudans will never forget,” Browne said.

He added that Antigua and Barbuda now has the opportunity to return that gesture of friendship.

Accordingly, the Prime Minister announced that the government will provide US$150,000 to support relief efforts in Venezuela.

“While modest in comparison to the scale of the need, this contribution is offered in the spirit of friendship, gratitude, and Caribbean and Latin American solidarity,” he stated.

Browne also said Antigua and Barbuda stands ready to work with Venezuelan authorities and regional partners to explore any additional practical assistance that may be required as relief operations continue and long-term recovery and reconstruction efforts begin.

The Prime Minister emphasized that disasters serve as a reminder that all nations remain vulnerable to the forces of nature and that international cooperation is essential during times of crisis.

“The thoughts and prayers of the people of Antigua and Barbuda are with the people of Venezuela,” Browne said. “We are confident that, with the resilience and courage for which they are renowned, they will overcome this tragedy and rebuild their communities.”

He concluded by offering prayers for those who lost their lives, wishing the injured a speedy recovery, and expressing hope that the Venezuelan people will find comfort and strength in the difficult days ahead.