Pakistan PM sends condolences over casualties caused by strong quake in Nepal, India

Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on Saturday expressed his deep shock at the reports of a massive earthquake that has caused devastation in Nepal and Northern India.

Strong quake hit Nepal and India Saturday morning while tremors were also felt in other countries including parts of Pakistan.

Reports suggested that the 7.7 magnitude earthquake has caused casualties and destruction. "The government of Pakistan and its people extend their heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the governments and the peoples of Nepal and India on the tragedy that has caused loss of precious lives and properties," said the prime minister, who is in London on an official visit. "The government and people of Pakistan express solidarity with the affected people of Nepal and India and offer all possible help that may be required in their hour of grief," a Foreign Ministry statement quoted Sharif as saying in a statement.

He said the government of Pakistan has instructed its missions in the two countries to approach their respective host governments to ascertain the damages caused and the requirement of relief assistance.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) of Pakistan has been readied to take the relief assistance at a short notice, the Foreign Ministry said.

The epicenter of the earthquake was in Nepal. Endi