US President Joe Biden 'deeply saddened' over loss of lives in Morocco's earthquake

US President Joe Biden on Sunday, September 10 expressed condolences to the victims of the earthquake in Morocco. "I am deeply saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by the earthquake in Morocco," said US President Biden in an official statement. Further, Biden added, "Our thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by this terrible hardship." Biden stressed that his administration is in contact with Moroccan officials to take stock of the devastating situation. 

"We are working expeditiously to ensure American citizens in Morocco are safe and stand ready to provide any necessary assistance for the Moroccan people," US President Joe Biden said. 

Biden stands by 'friend King Mohammed VI'

Biden affirmed that the United States stands by Morocco and "my friend King Mohammed VI" at this difficult moment.  A strong earthquake jolted central Morocco just after 11:00 p.m. local time (2211 GMT) on Friday. The earthquake struck Morocco's High Atlas mountain range, killing 2000 people, and injuring thousands of others. The epicentre was 71 kilometres (44 miles) southwest of Marrakesh, and at a depth of an estimated 18.5 km, according to the US Geological Survey. Morocco's 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, the city’s most famed landmark, also suffered damages during the earthquake. 

Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered “all possible assistance” to Morocco amid the G20 Summit being hosted here in New Delhi. In a tweet on Saturday morning, the PM said, ”Extremely pained by the loss of lives due to an earthquake in Morocco. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with the people of Morocco. Condolences to those who have lost their loved ones. May the injured recover at the earliest. India is ready to offer all possible assistance to Morocco in this difficult time." Morocco has suspended the qualifying game for the African Cup of Nations due to the earthquake. Doctors Without Borders, or MSF, said that it is responding to the earthquake in Morocco that killed several people. 

"Earthquake survivors often require medical care such as surgery or dialysis, which can be a challenge when local health systems are affected by a disaster. Restoring health services and providing essential supplies also can be a priority at this stage. Our response will depend on the needs that are assessed on site," said Avril Benoît, executive director of MSF-USA.