The Secretary-General extends his sincere condolences to the people and Government of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea on the heavy loss of life and injuries caused by the tragic train accident near the city of Ryongchon yesterday.

This morning the DPRK Ambassador called on the Emergency Relief Coordinator, Jan Egeland, with an official request for international assistance. In response, the United Nations will make emergency relief supplies available from existing stocks in North Korea and release emergency cash grants.

Tomorrow, a UN inter-agency mission will be on the site of the disaster to assess humanitarian needs, so as to mobilize immediate support and assistance to the people in the affected area.