The Government and the Opposition People's National Party (PNP) have expressed condolences to the Government and people of Venezuela after back-to-back powerful earthquakes claimed lives, caused widespread injuries, and left significant destruction in their wake on Wednesday.

“As a Caribbean nation that knows well the suddenness with which natural disasters can visit our region, Jamaica stands in full solidarity with Venezuela in this hour of grief and recovery. The bonds of friendship and regional kinship that unite our peoples are never more keenly felt than in moments of shared adversity,” a statement from the Government said.

It noted that Jamaica stands ready to support the relief and recovery effort in whatever way it can, as it joins the wider Caribbean and international community in offering assistance.