Pledging United Nations Support after Earthquake Rocks Ecuador, Secretary-General Commends Authorities for Leading Rescue Efforts in Affected Areas

The following statement was issued today by the Spokesman for UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon:

The Secretary-General extends his condolences to the people and Government of Ecuador for the loss of life, injuries and damages caused by the major earthquake that struck central parts of the country on 16 April 2016.

The Secretary-General commends the Ecuadorean authorities for their leadership in the rescue effort and in providing relief to affected communities.  The Emergency Relief Coordinator has deployed a Disaster and Assessment Coordination (UNDAC) team and the United Nations and humanitarian partners stand ready to provide additional support.