LOC09:13
06:13 GMT
NEW YORK, April 26 (KUNA) -- UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon thanked the first responders in all the affected countries who are working around the clock to save lives in the aftermath of the earthquake that has struck the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal.
Ban's thoughts are with the people of Nepal and neighboring countries, a statement released by his press office late Saturday said.
On behalf of the UN, Ban sends his deepest condolences to the Government of Nepal and to everyone affected, particularly to the families and friends of those killed and injured, the statement said.
Nevertheless, the UN is supporting the Government of Nepal in coordinating international search and rescue operations and is preparing to mount a major relief effort, the statement added.
A devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake hit Nepal on Saturday, toppling homes, and leaving behind close to 1,500 lives. There has also been significant damage to Nepal's irreplaceable cultural heritage.(end)
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