Secretary-General António Guterres has offered his condolences to the Government and people of Mexico and said the United Nations stands ready to provide support, should it be requested.

In a stateme attributable to his spokesperson, the Secretary-General said he was "saddened by the loss of life and destruction in the earthquake that struck the provinces of Oaxaca, Chiapas and Tabasco in Mexico".

Dozens of people were killed in the quake that struck before midnight on 7 September.

Mr. Guterres wished a speedy recovery to those injured, according to the statement.

He also commended the authorities and emergency responders, who he said "are sparing no efforts to assist people in need and restore essential services".

Adapted by UN

Photo: UN