Leaders and diplomats from around the world have come together to offer condolences and support to Morocco following a devastating earthquake near the popular tourist destination of Marrakesh.
Late on Friday, a powerful 6.8-magnitude earthquake struck, resulting in a tragic loss of life and injuries. Moroccan authorities have reported at least 632 fatalities and 329 injuries, with 51 individuals in critical condition. The earthquake’s epicenter was situated in the Al-Haouz province, according to the Moroccan Centre for Scientific and Technical Research, and most of the victims were in Al-Haouz and Taroudant, further to the south, as per the Moroccan interior ministry.
UK Pledges Aid: UK Foreign Minister James Cleverly expressed the UK’s commitment to helping Morocco in any way possible. He tweeted, “Devastating news of a substantial earthquake just outside Marrakesh, Morocco. We stand ready to help our Moroccan friends in whatever way we can.”
US President Biden Expresses Sadness: United States President Joe Biden conveyed his condolences and sadness over the tragedy. He mentioned that his administration was in contact with Moroccan officials and stated, “We are working expeditiously to ensure American citizens in Morocco are safe and stand ready to provide any necessary assistance for the Moroccan people. The United States stands by Morocco and my friend King Mohammed VI at this difficult moment.”
Spain Offers Assistance: Spain’s Foreign Minister, Jose Manuel Albares, offered to send rescue teams to Morocco. He emphasized the importance of saving lives and, if necessary, assisting in the recovery efforts once the immediate crisis has passed.
Russian President Putin Offers Condolences: Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed his condolences to the Moroccan people, sharing their pain and mourning the tragic consequences of the earthquake. He conveyed his sincere condolences to King Mohammed VI.
Ukrainian President Zelensky Stands in Solidarity: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed solidarity with Morocco and wished the injured a speedy recovery. He offered his deepest condolences to King Mohammed VI and the Moroccan people.
African Union Expresses Sorrow: The head of the African Union Commission, Moussa Faki Mahamat, expressed “great pain” over the devastating earthquake in Morocco and offered sincere condolences to King Mohammed VI, the Moroccan people, and the victims’ families.
German Chancellor and Swiss President Send Condolences: German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and Swiss President Alain Berset conveyed their condolences and sympathy to those affected by the earthquake.
Support from Italian, Belgian, and Israeli Prime Ministers: Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed grief and Italy’s willingness to support Morocco during this emergency. Belgian Prime Minister Alexander De Croo stood by Morocco in these difficult times. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu instructed government bodies and forces to provide necessary assistance to Morocco and prepare to send an aid delegation to the affected area.
UAE President’s Relief Efforts: The President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, pledged support to Morocco during this challenging period and ordered an “air bridge to deliver critical relief” to the country.
Support from Saudi Arabia and Egypt: Saudi Arabia and Egypt also issued statements expressing their condolences and support for Morocco.
This international outpouring of support and assistance reflects the global community’s solidarity with Morocco in the face of this tragic natural disaster.