World Bank President Robert B. Zoellick said on Saturday that the institution was ready to help the victims of Chile's massive earthquake.

"Our thoughts are with the people of Chile at this difficult time," said Zoellick in a statement. "The World Bank stands ready to support the Chilean government in any way it may find useful."

Zoellick said the World Bank would draw on its considerable expertise in catastrophe management and reconstruction to support Chile in the aftermath of this earthquake.

The magnitude-8.8 tremor rocked Chile Saturday morning, knocking down homes and hospitals, and triggering a tsunami that rolled menacingly across the Pacific. The government said at least 214 people were killed in the quake.

(Xinhua News Agency February 28, 2010)