In the wake of the 7.3 magnitude earthquake that struck Vanuatu, there is a strong likelihood that personnel from the Black Rock Peacekeeping and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Camp will be deployed to provide aid. Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka affirmed Fiji’s readiness to assist the affected nation. He stated, “We stand ready to have our people under training in Black Rock, and they can very quickly be deployed with our disaster management team.”
The earthquake, which hit shortly after noon, caused significant damage to infrastructure across the country. In a show of solidarity, Penny Wong, Australia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, expressed Australia’s commitment to assist Vanuatu as the extent of the damage becomes clearer, declaring, “Vanuatu is family, and we will always be there in times of need.”
New Zealand’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Winston Peters, also conveyed concern over the disaster. He noted that New Zealand’s high commission building, located alongside those of the US, France, and the UK, sustained considerable damage. Peters emphasized his country’s readiness to offer help in response to any requests from Vanuatu.
Moreover, the University of the South Pacific’s Emalus Campus has announced its temporary closure due to disrupted communication lines following the earthquake.
This calamity has united neighboring nations in support of Vanuatu, showcasing a strong commitment to regional solidarity during crises. Together, these countries are poised to help rebuild and assist those impacted by this natural disaster. As aid efforts ramp up, there is hope that the affected regions will recover swiftly and emerge stronger from this challenge.
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