Chinese president, premier extend condolences over Portugal forest fires

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Chinese President Xi Jinping on Sunday sent a condolence message to his Portuguese counterpart Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa over the severe forest fires in Portugal.

In his message, President Xi said that he was shocked to learn that the fires in Portugal have caused heavy casualties and property damage. He extended heartfelt condolences and sincere sympathy to the victims and their families on behalf of the Chinese government, the Chinese people and himself.

Xi said he believes that the Portuguese people will surely defeat the disaster and rebuild their homeland under the leadership of the Portuguese president and government.

Firefighters from the Fire Departments of Barreiro, Trafaria, Corroios and Cacilhas, among the first to arrive in Avelar in Portugal on June 18, 2017 /VCG Photo

Chinese Premier Li Keqiang on Sunday also sent a message of condolence to his Portuguese counterpart, Antonio Costa, saying he felt deeply grieved by the deaths and expressed sincere sympathy to their families. He wished the injured a quick recovery.

The wreckage of a garage in an area devastated by a wildfire close to the village of Figueiro dos Vinhos in central Portugal. /VCG Photo

Chief Executive of China's Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR) Chui Sai On on Monday also expressed his deep sadness and condolences over the many lives claimed by the wildfires in central Portugal, and his solidarity with those who continue to fight against this terrible fire.

(Source: Xinhua)