New Delhi: The Congress on Friday condoled the loss of lives in the twin earthquakes that have struck Venezuela and stressed that India stands ready to extend humanitarian assistance as well as every possible support to the Venezuelans as they confront this tragedy.
The opposition party said the people of India stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Venezuela in this hour of grief.
In a post on X, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said, "On behalf of the Indian National Congress, I express our profound grief and deepest condolences over the catastrophic loss of life and widespread devastation caused by the twin earthquakes that have struck Venezuela.
"Our heartfelt sympathies are with the bereaved families and every Venezuelan affected by this unimaginable tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost their loved ones, those still trapped beneath the rubble, the injured, and the countless rescue workers risking their lives to save others," the Congress chief said.
Also Read: What we know about the foreign victims of Venezuela's quakes
India and Venezuela have long shared warm and friendly relations, founded on mutual respect, solidarity, and cooperation, he said.
"In this hour of profound grief, the people of India stand shoulder to shoulder with the people of Venezuela," Kharge said.
India stands ready to extend humanitarian assistance and every possible support to the people of Venezuela as they confront this grave tragedy, he said.
"May those who have lost their lives rest in peace, may the injured recover swiftly, and may the resilient people of Venezuela find the strength to rebuild and recover," Kharge said.
The 7.2- and 7.5-magnitude earthquakes that struck Wednesday evening were among the strongest in Venezuela in more than a century and were felt throughout the region.
Also Read: Venezuela earthquake: Citizens move to search for survivors after tremors kill at least 235
The official death toll rose to around 235 late Thursday, with at least 4,300 people injured, Venezuela Health Minister Carlos Alvarado told state media. The number of casualties is expected to climb, with thousands reported missing.
