Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene have expressed their “profound sorrow” following a powerful 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia on Monday 10th August. 

The disaster has resulted in more than 200 fatalities and widespread destruction, according to the most recent reports from officials, with rescue teams still unable to reach the worst-affected epicentral region.

In a formal statement released by the Palace, Monaco’s Prince Albert II conveyed his family’s and the nation’s solidarity with the Colombian people, adding that the tragedy follows closely after a double earthquake hit neighbouring Venezuela six weeks prior.

“Princess Charlene and I learned with deep emotion of the powerful earthquake that struck western Colombia, resulting in numerous victims and injuries,” Prince Albert II said. “My family and the Monegasque population join me in sending our most sincere condolences to the Colombian people and demonstrating our full solidarity in the face of this tragedy, which occurred a month and a half after the double earthquake that hit Venezuela.”

As emergency crews continue battling challenging conditions to reach cut-off communities near the Chocó epicentre, the Prince offered words of comfort to those affected by the unfolding disaster: “Our thoughts are with the bereaved families and the injured, to whom we send our deepest compassion in these painful moments.”

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