BEIJING, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Leaders of international organizations and countries including Russia, Japan, Singapore, Germany and Mexico have offered condolences to China over its deadly mudslides.
Russian President Dmitry Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin extended their sincere condolences to China over the loss of life caused by the rain-triggered mudslides in Zhouqu County in China's northwestern Gansu Province.
They voiced hope those injured would recover as early as possible and the mudslide-hit area would return to normal soon.
A devastating mudslide hit Zhouqu County early Sunday morning following torrential rain overnight, burying houses and crushing buildings.
As of Thursday, the death toll has risen to 1,117, with another 627 people missing. But hopes of finding them alive were most gone as overnight downpours brought new disaster to Zhouqu, local authorities said.
Kim Yong Nam, president of the Presidium of the Supreme People's Assembly of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), and Choe Yong Rim, premier of the DPRK Cabinet, also sent their deep sympathies and condolences to China, hoping the people affected would overcome the natural diaster and resume a normal life.
Timor-Leste President Jose Ramos Horta voiced his deep grief and regret over China's heavy loss of life, saying he firmly believed the Chinese government and people possessed enough wisdom, will and power to overcome any kind of disaster with bravery and dignity.
U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon also said in a statement he was "saddened by the loss of life and devastation caused by the severe flooding that has affected considerable portions of China. He extends his deepest condolences to the families of those who have died or been injured or lost their homes and possessions."
Ban said he was aware of the tremendous rescue efforts being undertaken by the government of China, reaffirming the commitment of the United Nations to assist in any way should it be required.
Japanese Prime Minister Kan Naoto also sent condolences to the victims on behalf of the Japanese government and people, affirming that Japan was ready to offer necessary assistance to China should it be required.
