Prime Minister the Hon. W. Baldwin Spencer has sent a message of condolences and support to the Premier of the People's Republic of China following thousands of deaths and massive destruction from an earthquake in the Southwest of the country.

Following is the text of the Prime Minister's message to Premier Wen Jiabao:

May 12, 2008

Your Excellency,

I was deeply saddened to learn of the significant loss of life and tremendous damage caused by an earthquake in the Southwest of China

Please accept the heartfelt sympathies of the Government and people of Antigua and Barbuda as you carry out search and rescue and re-building operations. I am confident that the togetherness and resilience of the Chinese people combined with your Government's determination to provide for the people of China will result in the Southwest returning to normalcy in the shortest possible time.

My Government and the people of Antigua and Barbuda mourn those who have died and pray for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Your Excellency, Premier Wen, please accept the assurances of my highest consideration.

W. Baldwin Spencer
Prime Minister
Antigua and Barbuda