Photo by Bernd 📷 Dittrich on Unsplash
The EU has offered to provide aid to Taiwan after the island suffered a major earthquake.
The powerful 7.4 magnitude tremor shook the island’s east coast, hitting on Wednesday morning, some 18 kilometers south of Hualien city and at a depth of 34.8 kilometers.
This is the strongest quake to hit Taiwan in 25 years. At least nine people have reportedly been killed by the quake.
According to the US Geological Survey (USGS) it was followed by several strong aftershocks with tremors felt across the island.
Some 127 people are reportedly trapped in collapsed tunnels and on mountainous roads along the rugged coastline.
Rescue operations to reach 77 people trapped in the Jinwen and Qingshui tunnels along the road in Hualien were continuing late on Wednesday.
As a response, European Council President Charles Michel said he wanted to express support and condolences on behalf of the Union to the Taiwanese people affected by what is the most powerful earthquake tremor to hit the country for years.
In case of need, Taiwan may request support from the EU Civil Protection Mechanism.
Michel, a former Belgium PM, said in a statement, “My heartfelt support goes out to all those affected by the earthquake in Taiwan. And my condolences to the families of the victims.
“The European Union stands ready to provide any assistance needed,” he said.
