UN Secretary-general Ban Ki-moon on Wednesday sent his "deepest condolences" to China for a strong earthquake that hit the northwestern part of the country and killed about 400 people.

A statement, issued here by Ban's spokesman, said: "The secretary-general sends his deepest condolences to the government and people of China for the loss of life and injuries and for the destruction caused by the earthquake that struck Qinghai Province at 07:49 local time on April 14, 2010."

"The secretary-general recognizes the efforts being undertaken by the government of China to assess the situation and to assist those affected by the earthquake," the statement said. "The United Nations has made clear that it is ready to provide assistance, if requested by the government of China."

Also on Wednesday, UN General Assembly President Ali Treki, in a separate statement issued by his office, "expresses solidarity with and sends his condolences and prayers to the people and Government of China on this tragedy."

(Xinhua News Agency April 15, 2010)