SG/SM/8614
The following statement was issued today
by the spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:
The Secretary-General was saddened to learn of the powerful earthquake in the Xinjiang region of China, and of the loss of life and destruction that have resulted from the disaster. He wishes to convey his heartfelt sympathy to the people and Government of China as they cope with their losses. He wishes to assure the Government that the United Nations stands ready to assist in responding to the needs created by the tragedy.