President James Michel has extended his sincere condolences to the People and Government of the People’s Republic of China following the tragic ferry accident of “The Eastern Star” that occurred on the Yangtze River.

In a letter sent to President Xi Jinping, President Michel expressed his sympathies to the victims and the families of those affected:

“In the wake of this tragedy, the Government and the People of the Republic of the Seychelles join me in conveying our deepest condolences and sympathies to you, the People of the People’s Republic of China, and to the affected families, especially those from Jiangsu Province where most of the passengers were from. May those most touched by the disaster find the strength and courage to cope during this difficult time,” said the President in his letter.

President Michel concluded by expressing the continued solidarity of the Seychellois people during this sad moment.

“Seychelles shares excellent bonds of friendship and fraternity with China and stands in strong solidarity with the Government and People of the People’s Republic of China during these sombre moments. Our thoughts are with China as search and rescue efforts continue,” added the message.