Ottawa — The Canadian government has expressed its solidarity with the people of Afghanistan and offered humanitarian assistance following a devastating earthquake in the eastern part of the country. Global Affairs Canada has confirmed that there have been no reports of Canadian citizens being affected by the disaster.
In a statement, a spokesperson for Global Affairs Canada extended condolences to the victims and their families. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also took to social media, writing that Canada stands with the people of Afghanistan in their suffering and is prepared to provide necessary humanitarian aid.
The earthquake, which measured 6.0 on the Richter scale, struck on a Sunday evening near the city of Jalalabad in Kunar province. According to the Taliban government’s figures, the quake has left at least 800 people dead and injured more than 2,500. The true extent of the damage and casualties is still being assessed.
Aid agencies are facing significant challenges in reaching the affected areas. Charlie Goodlake, Head of External Relations for UNHCR in Afghanistan, stated that it is difficult to reach the affected villages, and communication is currently being established via helicopter. Efforts are underway to deliver essential supplies, including food and medicine, to the devastated communities. The remote location and mountainous terrain are complicating rescue and relief operations, making the delivery of aid a slow and arduous process. International relief organizations are working with local partners to coordinate the response and ensure help reaches those in desperate need.
