Seychelles Offers Condolences Following Cyclone Chido and Vanuatu Earthquake
The Seychelles government has expressed condolences to Mayotte and Mozambique due to Cyclone Chido and to Vanuatu following a devastating earthquake. Cyclone Chido has resulted in substantial casualties and destruction in Mayotte and Mozambique, while Vanuatu faces loss of life and damage from a 7.3 magnitude earthquake. Seychelles’ leaders have reaffirmed solidarity and support for the impacted nations during these challenging events.
On December 19, 2024, the government of Seychelles extended its heartfelt condolences and solidarity to the nations affected by Cyclone Chido and the earthquake in Vanuatu. Cyclone Chido has severely impacted Mayotte and southern Africa, with reports of substantial destruction and loss of lives. The search for missing persons continues in Mayotte, where 22 fatalities have been confirmed, and local authorities fear the final toll may exceed thousands. In Mozambique, at least 34 lives were lost, alongside the destruction of over 23,600 homes.
Seychelles’ Minister for Foreign Affairs, Sylvestre Radegonde, communicated with Ben Issa Ousseni, the President of Mayotte’s Departmental Council, expressing profound sadness over the tragedy. Minister Radegonde stated, “It is with profound sadness and great sorrow that the Seychellois people and I learned of the tragic news of Cyclone Chido’s passage through Mayotte.” He emphasized the solidarity and friendship between Seychelles and Mayotte, wishing for a swift recovery for the injured.
President Wavel Ramkalawan also offered condolences to Mozambique’s President, Filipe Nyusi, acknowledging the cyclone’s devastating impact. He affirmed, “It is with profound sadness that I learnt of the devastating impact of tropical cyclone Chido, which has resulted in the loss of lives and destruction to homes.” President Ramkalawan praised Mozambique’s prompt relief efforts and expressed confidence in the resilience of its people, assuring that Seychelles stands in solidarity during this challenging time.
Turning to the Pacific, a 7.3 magnitude earthquake struck Vanuatu, leading to at least 14 fatalities and hundreds of injuries. The quake inflicted extensive damage to Port Vila, the capital. In response, President Ramkalawan conveyed his sympathies to President Nikenike Vurobaravu, stating, “It is with profound sorrow that I learnt of the devastating earthquake that struck Vanuatu.” He commended the effective response from the Vanuatu government and local communities, reiterating Seychelles’ solidarity in the face of such tragedies.
Natural disasters increasingly pose significant threats to nations worldwide, leading to loss of life and widespread destruction. The recent Cyclone Chido in the Indian Ocean and the earthquake in Vanuatu are prime examples of such calamities. Cyclone Chido has notably affected Mayotte and parts of southern Africa, while Vanuatu was struck by a potent earthquake, emphasizing the need for international unity and support in recovery efforts following such disasters.
In conclusion, the Seychelles government has prominently demonstrated its commitment to international solidarity in the wake of natural disasters. The expressions of support and condolences to both Mayotte and Vanuatu illustrate the importance of unity among nations during times of crisis. As affected regions begin their recovery processes, they will benefit from the solidarity and compassion exhibited by neighboring nations such as Seychelles.
Original Source: www.seychellesnewsagency.com
