Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conveyed condolences to the government and people of Venezuela, particularly the families of those who lost loved ones in the disaster. In a post on X, he said Pakistan stood with the Venezuelan people during this difficult time and prayed for the recovery of those injured.
President Asif Ali Zardari also expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extensive damage caused by the earthquakes. In a statement, he extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and reaffirmed Pakistan’s solidarity with Venezuela.
The president said the people of Pakistan shared the grief of the Venezuelan nation and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, as well as strength and resilience for all those affected.
The earthquakes, measuring 7.2 and 7.5 magnitude, struck Venezuela on Wednesday, causing buildings to collapse in and around the capital Caracas. Authorities initially reported at least 32 deaths and hundreds of injuries, while rescue operations continued in the affected regions.
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), predictive models suggest the final death toll could rise significantly, potentially reaching into the thousands. Interim President Delcy Rodriguez said casualty figures from the severely affected La Guaira state had not yet been fully accounted for.
Rodriguez said dozens of buildings had collapsed and rescue teams were carrying out intensive operations to save as many people as possible from the rubble.
President Zardari expressed hope that the people of Venezuela would overcome the tragedy with courage and determination and that ongoing relief efforts would provide timely assistance to those in need.
