The Secretary-General is deeply saddened by the loss of life and destruction of property suffered by the people of Indonesia after the recent earthquake in Sumatra. He extends his deepest condolences to the families of those who have been killed or injured in the earthquake.

The United Nations has been in contact with the Government of Indonesia and stands ready to lend its assistance to efforts to respond to humanitarian needs created by the disaster, including by using existing resources and providing grants from emergency funds, and to mobilize international support for that response.