Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Saturday sent a message of condolence to Pakistani Foreign Minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari over the recent severe flooding in the country.

Wang said he was shocked to learn that the flooding, which struck many regions in Pakistan, had caused massive casualties. He expressed deep condolences to the victims and sincere sympathies to the bereaved families and the wounded.

The Chinese foreign minister also expressed his belief that the Pakistani people would overcome the disaster, and restore normal life and production at an early date.

At least 176 people have died and 175 were injured in rain-related incidents across Pakistan since June 14, the National Disaster and Management Authority said on Friday, adding that 577 houses were destroyed and 894 houses collapsed due to the flooding.