Secretary-General saddened by destruction from Iran Earthquake,

 

says un ready to respond to humanitarian needs

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for Secretary-General Kofi Annan:

The Secretary-General is deeply saddened by the heavy loss of life and destruction suffered by the people of the Islamic Republic of Iran after the recent earthquake in Zarand, Kerman province.  He extends his deepest condolences to the people and Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran, especially to the families of the hundreds who have been killed and injured in the earthquake.

The United Nations is organizing assessment missions to the affected region and stands ready to assist in efforts to respond to the humanitarian needs created by the disaster.

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