UN chief 'saddened' by massive landslide in SW China

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UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said Saturday that he is saddened to learn of the loss of life and devastation caused by a landslide in southwest China's Sichuan Province.

Rescuers have retrieved 15 bodies from the debris by 10 p.m. Saturday local time, the rescue headquarters in Sichuan said.

"The Secretary-General salutes the efforts of the national relief and recovery teams. The United Nations stands ready to support the authorities in any way it can if needed," said a UN statement.

"The Secretary-General extends his condolences to the people and Government of the People's Republic of China and wishes those injured a speedy recovery," the statement added.

A landslide triggered by torrential rain hit Xinmo Village in Maoxian County early Saturday morning. At least 118 people are still missing. The local government has confirmed the identities of those believed to be buried in the rubble. Around 142 tourists reportedly near the site have been safely evacuated.

The government of the Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture of Aba in Sichuan Province opened a 24-hour emergency service hotline.

The provincial government has launched the highest level of disaster relief response.

(With inputs from Xinhua)