Local firefighters rescue trapped residents in Tibet. Picture: UN / China Fire Services
At least 126 people were killed and 188 injured in a 7.1-magnitude quake that struck in a remote region near Mount Everest, Tibet.
Tremors were reportedly felt in Nepal, Bhutan and parts of northern India.
United Nations spokeswoman Stephane Dujarric said that secretary-general Antonio Guterres hoped for a speedy recovery for the injured and expressed his sincere condolences to families of the dead victims.
He said the UN was closely monitoring the situation and was ready to provide support if asked.
The Dalai Lama said he was “deeply saddened” to learn of the earthquake that struck Dingri (country) in Tibet.
“It caused the tragic loss of many lives, numerous injuries, and extensive destruction to homes and property. I offer my prayers for those who have lost their lives and extend my wishes for a swift recovery to all who have been injured.”
The Australia-Tibet Council said they were also deeply saddened by the news.
“At this critical moment, the safety and welfare of those affected by the earthquake must be given full priority,” a council spokeswoman says.
“To this end, we call on world governments to provide support and oversight to all of China’s disaster relief efforts in order to ensure impacted Tibetan communities receive the required aid and assistance.”
COLONIAL GRIP
The council also called on the Chinese government not to use its earthquake response to tighten its control of Tibet or punish Tibetans who share information or attempt to contact family and friends.
And the council also called on the global community, especially governments and media outlets, to use Tibetan place names as a matter of historical accuracy and respect for the Tibetan people.
“The Chinese government is engaged in a campaign to literally erase the word Tibet from the map in an effort to reduce recognition of Tibet as an entity separate from China,” the spokeswoman says.
“The earthquake exacerbated the existing vulnerabilities of the Tibetan people, who have suffered for more than seven decades under China’s violent occupation of their nation.
“Tibet advocacy groups worldwide will continue to do everything in our power to fight for the fundamental rights and dignity of the Tibetan people and for the restoration of freedom in Tibet.”
