Gov't, Opposition voice solidarity with Venezuela following deadly Venezuela earthquakes

The Government and the Opposition People's National Party (PNP) have expressed condolences to the Government and people of Venezuela after back-to-back powerful earthquakes claimed lives, caused widespread injuries, and left significant destruction in their wake on Wednesday.

“As a Caribbean nation that knows well the suddenness with which natural disasters can visit our region, Jamaica stands in full solidarity with Venezuela in this hour of grief and recovery. The bonds of friendship and regional kinship that unite our peoples are never more keenly felt than in moments of shared adversity,” a statement from the Government said.

It noted that Jamaica stands ready to support the relief and recovery effort in whatever way it can, as it joins the wider Caribbean and international community in offering assistance.

“Our hearts are with the families who have lost loved ones, with the injured, and with the many still searching for those trapped beneath the rubble,” the statement added.

Meanwhile, the PNP acknowledged that the tragedy has left families grieving, communities disrupted, and many facing immense uncertainty.

“At times like these, words can offer only limited comfort, but they can affirm a shared sense of humanity and solidarity with those who are suffering,” the party said in a statement today.

Two powerful earthquakes struck the South American country, killing at least 164 people and injuring 971, as buildings collapsed in and around the capital.

The United States Geological Survey (USGS) said the first earthquake had a magnitude of 7.1 and its epicentre was west of the community of Morón, located along the country’s Caribbean coast, about 168 kilometres (104 miles) west of Caracas.

The quake had a depth of 13 kilometres (8 miles).

Minutes later, the USGS reported an even larger 7.5-magnitude earthquake.

The second quake had a depth of 10 kilometres (6 miles) and its epicentre was 16 kilometres (10 miles) southwest of Morón.

The PNP stressed that natural disasters test the resilience of nations, but they also remind us of the importance of compassion, cooperation and international solidarity.

“We mourn with the families who have lost loved ones and stand in sympathy with all those who have been injured, displaced, or otherwise affected by this disaster. Our thoughts are especially with those still awaiting news of relatives and friends, as well as the many vulnerable persons whose lives have been so suddenly disrupted,” the party said.

It also extended commendation to Venezuela’s emergency responders, healthcare professionals and volunteers.

“As Venezuela begins the difficult task of recovery, we hope that the country will continue to receive the support needed to assist affected communities and rebuild lives,” it said.

“The People's National Party stands in solidarity with the people of Venezuela and prays that they may find the courage, resilience and unity to overcome this tragedy and rebuild with hope.”

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