February 22, 2016
No. 045
The government of the Republic of China expresses its sincere gratitude to Pope Francis for sending condolences following the Tainan earthquake, which struck in the early hours of February 6.
With a magnitude of 6.4, the earthquake resulted in substantial loss of life and property in southern Taiwan, particularly the city of Tainan. Shortly after the earthquake, the Apostolic Nunciature in the ROC, through a note verbale, conveyed a message from Secretary of State of the Holy See Cardinal Pietro Parolin, expressing deep condolences on behalf of Pope Francis on the devastation caused by the earthquake, offering encouragement to rescue workers and local authorities, and sending prayers to all those affected.
The ROC government is also deeply grateful for Pope Francis’s donation of US$50,000 through the Pontifical Council Cor Unum, which will provide assistance to relief and recovery operations and serve as source of spiritual support for victims. (E)