Earthquake: EmaSwati in Taiwan safe
MBABANE – No need to panic. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has assured the nation that no liSwati currently in the Republic of China (Taiwan) had been affected by the recent earthquake that hit Hualien City, killing nine people, over 1 000 getting injured, while 50 are still missing. The recent earthquake of magnitude 7.4 Richter scale is said to be the strongest earthquake to hit Taiwan in 25 years. Speaking on national radio on Thursday morning, Sikhumbuzo Bhembe, the ministry’s Communications Officer, said emaSwati who were in Taiwan were safe. He said it was on record that some emaSwati were in Taiwan, because they worked there, while others were in the Asian country for studying purposes.
“We thank God that no liSwati has been reported having been affected by the recent earthquake,” he said.
He further indicated that Prime Minister (PM), Russell Mmiso Dlamini, on behalf of Their Majesties, had conveyed condolences to the president and the people of the Republic of China (Taiwan), following the loss of lives and injuries. “It is our hope and prayer that the Almighty God will comfort the government and the Republic of China (Taiwan) during this difficult time. We further pray that the emergency response providers work swiftly and safely in responding to this disaster.”
Worth mentioning is that fire authorities in Taiwan evacuated 70 people trapped in tunnels near Hualien City, including two Germans.
It was also reported that 80 people were trapped in a mining area, though it was not immediately clear if they were inside the mine.