PRIME Minister (PM) Jeremiah Manele has conveyed condolence to his Vanuatu counterpart, Prime Minister Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas on behalf of the government and people of the Solomon Islands following the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck Vanuatu on Tuesday.

The quake struck off the coast of Port Vila, causing significant damage to infrastructure and tragic loss of lives.

In a sympathy letter, Prime Minister Manele stated “It is with profound sorrow and sadness that I write to you, your government and to the people of the Republic of Vanuatu to convey our deepest condolences on behalf of my government and the people of Solomon Islands for the loss of lives and the huge destruction of property and infrastructure in Vanuatu resulting from the devastating earthquake that struck your country.

“Prime Minister, words cannot express the depth of sadness and sorrow we feel as we hear about the loss of lives and the level of destruction in your national capital and other areas in Vanuatu,” he added.

PM Manele assured his Vanuatu counterpart that Solomon Islands stands in solidarity with the Vanuatu government as they lead the immediate response work to the disaster.

He further assured Prime Minister Charlot Salwai Tabimasmas that Solomon Islands thoughts and prayers are with the families who have lost loved ones and property, as well as the businesses and communities affected by the disaster.

“May our Almighty God comfort you and give you the strength to endure as you face the pain and sorrow of losing your loved ones and your properties and belongings,” Prime Minister Manele stated.

PM Manele reassured his Nivan counterpart of God’s continued blessings to his government and people of Vanuatu at this difficult time.

He said Solomon Islands Government in the spirit of Melanesian solidarity will provide assistance to Solomon Islands brothers and sisters in Vanuatu in this difficult time to help restore normalcy.