Saint Lucia students located safe, following earthquake in Taiwan

Saint Lucia students were located following massive destruction due to a 7.4 magnitude earthquake in the Republic of China (Taiwan) on Wednesday. The Prime Minister, Philip J Pierre, confirmed the news that the nationals of the island nation are safe and accounted for. 

He also extended a helping hand to the Taiwanese people during such devastating conditions that occurred due to natural disasters. PM Pierre is continuously in talks with Saint Lucia’s Ambassador in Taiwan, H.E. Dr Robert K Lewis, who is taking care of all the basic needs of their students residing in the country. 

“I have spoken to Saint Lucia’s Ambassador in Taiwan, H.E. Dr Robert K Lewis, who has accounted for our students and will work with them as the country begins to recover and monitor the shocks”, PM Pierre posted on his official Facebook handle. 

He assured the Taiwanese people and Saint Lucia that they are there for any kind of help or assistance, especially in this tough time. The Prime Minister expressed his confidence in the people of Taiwan’s capability to rebuild the infrastructure destroyed by natural disasters. 

It is noteworthy that Ambassador Lewis said that about 200 Saint Lucian citizens (students) are currently studying in the country. He also said that a devastating earthquake struck the country on Wednesday morning, leaving people in fear.

The diplomat of Saint Lucia further stated the embassy has tried to established contact with the students of the Island nation in various parts of the country via student network. 

“We sought to find out if everybody was okay and up to at least 8:00 am Saint Lucian time, we haven’t had anybody reporting there are any problems”, remarked Lewis. 

As per the information, the authorities have received very positive update about their people. He also commends the local residents for contacting each other and embassy for providing a regular update. 

The embassy extended a vote of thanks to everyone, including the Prime Minister Pierre, Education Minister- Shawn Edward and ambassadors overseas for their constant support and concern.

As Taiwan is a major development partner for Saint Lucia, the government offered sympathy to the Taiwanese people. 

“There are some parts of Taiwan that have been affected, and we want to tell the Government of Taiwan, as Prime Minister Pierre has done, that we are in solidarity with them” added Lewis. 

Additionally, the recent report has revealed that about nine people have lost their lives, approximately 127 people were struck in the collapsed buildings, and more than 800 received serious injuries due to the earthquake.

This earthquake is considered the most powerful one in the last 25 years.