President Dr Mohamed Muizzu has extended his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the powerful earthquake that struck the Xizang Autonomous Region earlier today.

The 7.1 magnitude earthquake, which struck the foothills of the Himalayas at approximately 09:00 AM local time, was followed by dozens of aftershocks that were felt across western China and the neighbouring state of Nepal. According to Chinese state media, At least 126 people lost their lives, and 188 others sustained injuries.

The region is prone to seismic activity. However, today's earthquake is among the deadliest to hit China in recent years.

In the President's message addressed to Chinese President Xi Jinping, President Dr Muizzu expressed his heartfelt sympathies to the injured and conveyed his hopes for a swift and effective disaster response. He emphasised solidarity with the Chinese people during this difficult time.