WASHINGTON, Oct. 8 (Xinhuanet) -- US President George W. Bush on Saturday offered condolences and help to victims of the devastating earthquake in South Asia.

    "The people of the United States offer our deepest sympathies for the loss of life and destruction caused by the earthquake that struck outside of Islamabad," Bush said in a statement.

    "Our initial deployments of assistance are underway, and we stand ready to provide additional assistance as needed." Bush added.

    In a statement issued by the State Department, US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice said she had spoken with the foreign ministers of both Pakistan and India to convoy sympathy and offer whatever assistance may be needed.

    "At this difficult time, the United States stands with its friends in Pakistan and India, just as they stood with us and offered assistance after Hurricane Katrina," Rice said. Enditem