Eleven South African citizens have been affected by the powerful earthquake that struck Thailand and Myanmar on March 28, the Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation confirmed on Thursday.
Measuring 7.7 on the Richter scale, the quake caused catastrophic damage, killing over 2,700 people in Myanmar and more than 20 in Thailand, while leaving thousands injured and displaced.
The South African embassy in Bangkok is providing consular assistance to the affected nationals, the ministry said in a statement.
“The South African embassy in Bangkok is aware of 11 South African citizens affected by the earthquake and is rendering consular assistance to them,” the statement said.
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola expressed solidarity with the affected communities.
“South Africa stands in solidarity with the affected communities during this tragic time. The thoughts of the people of South Africa are with the families who have lost loved ones and those who have been injured,” Lamola said.
The minister commended the efforts of emergency response teams working tirelessly to provide relief and extended heartfelt sympathies to the peoples of Thailand and Myanmar.
The United States Geological Survey has warned that fatalities could surpass 10,000.
JN/APA