Lao leaders extend condolences to Colombia following deadly earthquake

President Thongloun Sisoulith and Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Thongsavan Phomvihane, have sent messages of condolence to the Government and people of Colombia following a powerful earthquake that struck western Colombia on August 10.
In separate messages dated August 13, the Lao leaders expressed their deep sorrow and sympathy to the Colombian authorities and people, particularly the families affected by the earthquake.
In his message to the President of Colombia, Abelardo De La Espriella, President Thongloun said he had learned with profound sadness of the powerful earthquake that struck western Colombia, resulting in casualties, injuries and extensive property damage.
On behalf of the Government and people of Laos, as well as in his own name, President Thongloun offered his sincere condolences and deepest sympathy to President De La Espriella and, through him, to the Government and people of Colombia, especially those families affected by the disaster.
He expressed confidence that, under the Colombian President’s resolute leadership, together with the efforts of the Colombian Government and people and support from the international community, Colombia would overcome the difficult situation and swiftly restore the affected areas to normal.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr Thongsavan Phomvihane, also sent a message of condolence to Colombian Foreign Minister Laura Sarabia.
Mr Thongsavan expressed deep sorrow over the devastating losses caused by the 7.4-magnitude earthquake that struck western Colombia last week, resulting in numerous deaths, injuries and extensive property damage.
On behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the people of Laos, he extended heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy to Minister Sarabia and, through her, to the Government and people of Colombia, particularly the bereaved families.
Mr Thongsavan expressed confidence that, under the leadership and steadfast efforts of the Colombian Government, the resilient people of Colombia would overcome this difficult period and that the affected areas would be restored so that life could return to normal.

By Times Reporters
 (Latest Update August 20, 2026)