117 people died in the disaster, including 115 residents in one apartment complex. The sum is intended for the victims' families and survivors. The donation to the Chinese Regional Bishops' Conference, was made on behalf of the Pope by the Pontifical Council Cor Unum.
Taipei (AsiaNews) - Pope Francis has sent a donation of 50 thousand dollars for the families of the victims and the survivors of the terrible earthquake that struck the southern part of the island of Taiwan last Feb. 6. This is confirmed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Taipei: the sum was sent to the Chinese Regional Bishops' Conference through the Pontifical Council Cor Unum.
The earthquake – of magnitude 6.4 - occurred in Tainan. There were 117 victims, of which 115 residents in a single building complex that collapsed in Yongkang district. The authorities are currently engaged in an investigation to understand how the total collapse of the recently built Weiguan Jinlong ( "Golden Dragon") was possible.
The day after the disaster, which occurred in conjunction with the Chinese New Year, the Pope sent a telegram signed by the Secretary of State Card. Parolin. In the text, the Pope says he "was saddened to learn of the suffering caused by the deadly earthquake which struck in Tainan, leaving many people dead or seriously injured. He sends prayerful condolences to the families of the deceased and injured, as well as to rescue personnel and the civil authorities. His Holiness, commending the souls of the departed to the tender mercy of God, invokes abundant divine blessings of consolation and strength upon those who mourn and upon all who have been affected by this tragedy".