Secretary-General Expresses Deepest Condolences to All Affected by Deadly Earthquakes in Italy, Myanmar

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General's thoughts are today with the people of Italy and Myanmar following the earthquakes that struck the two countries on 24 August.

While reports on the impact of the earthquakes are still coming in, it is evident that lives have been lost and infrastructure has been damaged.  In Italy, it is reported that an estimated 120 people have been killed and over 360 injured.  In Myanmar, initial reports indicate that a number of buildings, including schools, pagodas and houses have been damaged in Naypyitaw, Mandalay and Magway regions.

On behalf of the United Nations, the Secretary-General expresses his deepest condolences to the Governments of Italy and Myanmar and to everyone affected, particularly to the families and friends of those killed and injured.

The United Nations stand ready to offer its support should that be requested.